OUTDOOR SPORT HOLIDAYS

SPORT CAMPING by HAVASU VILLAGE

2009-11-29T09:33:00.000-08:00

Mavikent, Kumluca - Antalya - Turkey

SATELLITE LOCATION MAP (MAVIKENT)
SATELLITE LOCATION MAP (CAMPING)

KUMLUCA WEATHER FORECAST

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HavaSu, located at 280 m over the sea level, is designed perfectly matching the needs of Sport Fans. HavaSu is an ideal Sports Camp. For Discovering, Re-Creating & Keeping Alive ! Alternative Holiday The friendly and fun loving staff at the HavaSu Village await you with a warm welcome. A lively and warm family run place... Do you see any stars shinning on you over there?

If you are into astronomy, you will be leaving this place with complete satisfaction after you see the sky here with billions of stars shinning like little diamonds on it. And you'll thank yourself that you've chosen to take you out of that light pollution in the city, not letting you to see any stars anymore. And maybe you it'll be frightening to see all these since you'll never be able think that it is somehow possible to be alone in this universe.

If you like we'll be teaching you the names and the positions of the sky objects. So that you won't get confused when you see a huge round light; and know that it's Mars, not a helicopter, (that happened to me the first time I noticed Mars).

Do you have birds, trees or squarels around your home? If you are coming from a big city, the first two days are some off! Why so? Since we know that your ears are longing to hear the sound of the silence, and your eyes are begging not to see all those useless details that you see each and every day in the city. All because of these your brain needs at least two days to get used to this perfect conditions.

This place is the best to refresh your senses. And with all the senses coming back you'll remember how wonderful it is to be alive!! HavaSu is here to remind you what life indeed means.

If you want to spend a day relaxing, you can enjoy swimming or sunbathing at the beautiful beaches alongside fabulous bays of Mavikent. Or if you just want to stay inside HavaSu Camp, you may also enjoy our pool. You will be fascinated by the floral environment if you are into botany.

SPORT ACTIVITIES

Hiking & Jogging
If you are keen on Hiking and Jogging, at HavaSu you will just find yourself on the edge of a desire to discover the endless beauty while you are jogging/hiking in the forest which lays just by the borders of your accommodation meanwhile offering you the best views of antique cities. While you are trekking you will enjoy the perfect combination of Hiking and experiencing the historical sites.

If you prefer to combine your trekking activity with and unforgettable experience of sightseeing tour, you may join our professional guided tour along the Lykia Road passing by the tracks of Gagae, Aktaş Beach, Zeytinlik, Kargılıdere, Kazanova, Papaz İskelesi, Karaoz, Pirates Bay, Gelidonya Light House, Adrasan Bay, Musa Tepesi, Olympos, Chimera. They are all on the Lycian Way ! From 100 meters to 15 km to HavaSu ! We just offer you a great area Jogging & Hiking experience with an endless energy ! Which you will be received it here.

Scuba Diving
Have you ever experienced the undersea world offering you a breathtaking three-dimensional view and a real adventure? Submerge yourself in the excitement of the underwater world and experience what it likes to live without gravity! Under the supervision of the professional divers of Diving School located near HavaSu, you have the chance of learning diving. At the end of a successful completion of your diving education, you will be awarded with International Diving Certificate (CMAS). If you already have a CMAS Certificate then submerge yourself in what you like in the fabulous diving sites just near HavaSu.

Boat Trips
Enjoy the beauty of numerous bays with the daily boat trips. If you want you can also join 3 to 4 day Cruises. You dream of beautiful bays and we help your dreams come true, just imagine! Tours can be arranged as daily or 3-4 daylong.

Rock Climbing
Rock Climbing and Abseiling will be a great experience by the Rock Climbing Paths just near HavaSu, newly opened places for experienced climbing fans and for the ones who would like to experience climbing.

Tree Climbing
Tree Climbing will be a very nice enjoyment at HavaSu for the ones who like climbing. There are very beautiful and big Pine Trees at HavaSu that you will desire to climb them.! Very enjoyable, funny and low risk.

Mountain Bike
Whether you are a biking enthusiast or a casual Saturday biker, biking at HavaSu will be a real experience. You may just hit the roads with your picnic basket and choose a bay to have a break for swimming or to do whatever you like. Also, you may enjoy the professionally guided group tours. This will help you to get rid of the negative energy inside and save some positive energy.

MORE INFO by HavaSu Camping Village

These scripts and photographs are registered under © Copyright 2009, HavaSu Camping Village / Mavikent, Kumluca - Antalya - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

PAINTBALL by PAINTSIGN PAINTBALL

2009-11-29T09:26:00.000-08:00

Çankaya - Ankara - Turkey

LOCATION SATELLITE MAP (ÇANKAYA)
LOCATION SATELLITE MAP (ÇAMKORU)
LOCATION SATELLITE MAP (ILGAZ)

ÇANKAYA WEATHER FORECAST
KIZILCAHAMAM WEATHER FORECAST
YAHOO WEATHER FORECAST (ANKARA)
MSN CHANNEL FORECAST (ANKARA)
HOLIDAY WEATHER FORECAST (ANKARA)
WUNDERGROUND WEATHER FORECAST (ANKARA)
BBC WEATHER FORECAST (ANKARA)
WETTER RTL WEATHER FORECAST (ANKARA)
ACCU WEATHER FORECAST (ANKARA)
WEATHER CHANNEL FORECAST (ANKARA)

KASTAMONU WEATHER FORECAST
MSN WEATHER FORECAST (KASTAMONU)
WUNDERGROUND WEATHER FORECAST (KASTAMONU)

MORE 58 PHOTOS BY PHOTOBUCKET ALBUM

Our firm's headquarter is in Ankara. Paintball games take place four seasons in our central facility at Çankaya Field, Kızılcahamam Jungle Field and Ilgaz Lake Hotel Field. In addition, where ever you are in Turkey, you can contact us and get information about our mobile fields in order to include paintball to your outdoor organizations.

Besides, by using paintball with the support of professional instructors, you can give "Stress Management and Team Construction" education to your personnel. For details of the paintball organizations for firms please contact us.

Safety first, entertainment next is our motivation for years. Our dedication to our job and the experience of long years and thousands of organizations gives us the power to provide you the best paintball experience in its safest way. Our guests always find the best recball and speedball fields with maintained and cronographed markers, new goggles and seasoned professional refs.

Paintsign is also the major equipment provider in Turkey for both fields and players. Tippmann, Scott, Dye, Proto, Toroball, Boost-Air and many more leading brands can be found in our Paintball Market with the best prices and technical support.

ÇANKAYA ARENA
Paintsign Paintball is now at Çankaya - Muhye, just 5 minutes from Atakule. You will exactly find more than a few barriers in this 15.000 m2 huge field which is constructed at a former factory building ! The 1.000 m2 factory building with a second floor just in the middle of the field adds lots of strategic varieties and adrenaline to the games and gives the players the opportunity to play different scenarios like Hostage and Defend the Bunker.

Paintballs are sold in factory sealed boxes. We do not accept returned paintballs. Our bus arrives at the meeting point 1,5 hours before the organization starts, and brings back the participants to the same point after the games end.

Çankaya Arena Activities
Paintball, Table tennis, Frees bee, Dart, Kite, Chess, backgammon, Desk games, Playground, Indoor/outdoor cafe, Barbecue

You can find hot, cold drinks, variety of fast food in our cafe and as an addition you can make barbecue with the stuff that you can get from our cafe. You will forget all about the stressful city life in our huge green garden which serves you as an isolated secret place in the middle of the city!

Schedule and Fees for Çankaya Arena
In Muhye Field, the paintball games take place in form of 2 hour periods. Our recball scenario field is open between 10:00-24:00 and our speedball field is pen between 11:00-21:00.

You can even play 2v2 in our Recball field but for an enjoyable game, its better you come with at least 7-8 friends. We recommend a maximum of 12v12 in for our recball field. We are accepting min 10, max 14 players for our speedball field. But if your group is more than these numbers, we can arrange a tournament for you if you inform us during reservation.

All the players receive a "meeting - introduction form" and a fifteen-minute briefing before the game. So, we recommend you to arrive at least 30 minutes earlier than the organization start in order not to lose any playing time.

Field Choices

Recball Field
A real scenario field with hundreds of barriers and the factory building ! 8000 m2 scenario field with many bunkers and a factory building in the middle.

Fee Includes
1,5 hours game time, 100 Paintballs per person, Uniform, Tippmann Custom 98 Semi-Auto Paintball Marker, Protective Goggles, Professional Refs

Game Times
10:00 - 11:30, 12:00 - 13:30, 14:00 - 15:30, 16:00 - 17:30, 18:00 - 19:30, 20:00 - 21:30, 22:00 - 23:30, 24:00 - 01:30

Indoor Field
You can play just inside the factory building if you wish. This field is for small groups, rainy days and for people who just want to try something different !

Speedball Field
A professional speedball field with artificial grass ground and 36 air bunkers including a 6 meter high X for the players who love speed ! As an addition to these our cafe and desks that you can watch the games are waiting for you ! 2000 m2 speedball field with 36 air bunkers and artificial grass ground.

Fee Includes : 1,5 hours game time, 50 Paintballs per person, Tippmann Custom 98 Semi-Auto Paintball Marker, Protective Goggles, Professional Refs

Game Times : 11:00 - 12:30, 13:00 - 14:30, 15:00 - 16:30, 17:00 - 18:30, 19:00 - 20:30

ÇAMKORU JUNGLE FIELD
The paintball field is set on a jungle zone of 10.000 m2 in Çamkoru National Park which is 1 hour away from the city centre. The players can make use of the utilities of our Hotel.

Our Çamkoru National Park organization starts at 8:30 with the bus taking the group from a designated place. During the way to Çamkoru, which lasts approximately an hour, tea, coffee and pastry are served. When arrived at Çamkoru National Park a break is given at the lounge of our Hotel in front of the fireplace for 45 minutes. During the break, while our guests rest in the relaxing atmosphere of our Hotel, they fill in the "player information form" and take the briefing about paintball.

After 45 minutes, our guests are transferred to the paintball area in the jungle. After the field is presented to the players, the games start. Players play paintball as long as they want until it gets dark. Tournaments are produced according to the numbers of teams and all kinds of scenarios can be applied depending on the players' wish. In addition to that, whenever wanted during the day, the barbecue is prepared and with hot/cold drinks and grills, our guests enjoy the picnic.

When it gets dark, the games end and the group returns to our Hotel. The cup ceremony is held here while hot drinks are served and the day is evaluated. After the photographs are taken, the journey back to Ankara begins. The organization ends with the arrival in Ankara after an hour of journey. You can reach to minute-by-minute schedule and fees of the Soğuksu National Park Organization from the schedule and fees page. Besides, we offer an alternative day in the unique nature of Çamkoru National Park with activities like trekking and orientation, and we can also arrange 2 day programmes for you by the use of our hotel.

ILGAZ DİPSİZGÖL / TOSYA - KASTAMONU

Schedule and Fees for Ilgaz Dipsizgöl
Our organizations in Ilgaz Dipsizgöl include whole weekend. After the arrival at the hotel and lodging at the rooms, paintball games take place all day long and then the daily schedule ends with a barbecue party near lake. After lodging at the hotel that night, on Sunday, after the breakfast, weekend schedule ends with trekking or treasure hunting according to the preferences. Transportation fee is not included in the price. We offer transportation service to our guests who do not prefer to come by car.

Services Included in the Fee
Paintball games on Saturday, All the equipments that are necessary to play paintball, 100 paintballs per person, Trekking or treasure hunting according to preference on Sunday, Full board accommodation at our hotel.

Mobile Fields
You have the opportunity to experience the paintball excitement where ever you are in Turkey! Our mobile fields, which can be set up in the morning and can be unraveled right after the organization, can be built in the garden of a hotel, in a jungle zone or where ever you prefer. The organizations that we made in Antalya, Alanya, Izmir, Istanbul and Trabzon are examples of the paintball activities that we realized in many different places of Turkey until now. Safety, fun and convenient prices are standards of Paintsign Mobile Organizations.

Field Choices

Recball Field: A real scenario field with hundreds of barriers and the factory building !
Indoor Field: You can play just inside the factory building if you wish. This field is for small groups, rainy days and for people who just want to try something different !

Speedball Field: A professional speedball field with artificial grass ground and 36 air bunkers including a 6 meter high X for the players who love speed !
As an addition to these our cafe and desks that you can watch the games are waiting for you !

PAINTBALL EQUIPMENTS

Marker
Tippmann Custom 98 : For many years unrivalled, the most ideal marker for field use. Even under difficult conditions it works by the ideal performance and a classic you can trust while playing. Before you start to play, you set it for once and after this time, whenever you press the trigger, you shoot a ball. According to the speed you fire, these Cystom 98s will enable you to fire 7-8 shots per second.

Power of shooting : Half-automatic, 7-8 per second, Caliber : 68, Weight : 1,93 kg, Length : 74,8 cm, Barrel : 23 cm, Power supply : Carbondioxide (CO2), Range : 50 meter, Safety : Trigger lock

SAFETY EQUIPMENTS

Scott: Paintball goggle in worldwide standards by Scott, one of the pioneers for the production of various glasses and accessories for many extreme sports such as skiing and motor sports besides Paintball. Produced with policarbon (shatterproof) glass and protects you the best from the paintballs in the field.

Uniforms : Not only protects you from the balls but also stops the speed of the ball coming towards you. It is delightful to have your jerseys as a team with your name on your back, and your team logo on your chest; however, if you come to Paintsign after work or school, in case you have a pair of comfortable shoes, you can play delightful paintball games with our camouflage jerseys. There are two types of jerseys in Paintsign; summer and winter jerseys for our willing guests. Summer jerseys are made of airy fabrics and designed for you to avoid heat. Winter jerseys are made of impermeable fabrics and protects you from cold and rain.

Barrel plugs : Attached to the barrels out of the game field and prevents people without goggles to get hurt in the safe area in case unintentional shootings.

PAINTBALLS

68 Caliber Paintballs
There is food dye inside of the balls and outside of them are made of gelatine. It takes maximum three weeks for them to waste away in nature. Being water-based, consisting non-toxin materials they do not contaminate nature and do not have any harm to human structure. In Paintsign, always high quality balls are being used. The difference of these balls from others is having less probability to burst in markers but more on the target and their bright color could easily be distinguished from farther places.

THE RULES OF PAINTBALL

The Game Rules
Below are the basic rules of paintball based on the professional rule book. A detailed briefing about the rules will be given before the games.

* When you are hit and marked by a paintball, you announce that you are hit and leave the field directly. If you fail to do that, your team receives penalty points.
* If the paintball mark on you is smaller than a quarter-sized splat, it is an invalid shot. If a splat spreads on you from a different place (for example when you kneel on a painted trench) it is called "spray". In both situations, the ref may call you "out" by looking at the quantity of the paint on you.
* If a player, whom you think you have hit, continues to play, you may make him checked by showing this opponent to the judge and saying "paintcheck".
* You may ask for help from the nearest judge if you have a problem (such as your CO2 gas is over) during the game by saying "control".
* In both "paintcheck" and "control" situations, the player who is being checked is "neutral". During being checked, nobody can shoot this player; this player cannot shoot anyone neither. The hits which are made during these situations are invalid.
* If the game stops for whatever reason, no player can change his location.
* During the game, players can exchange all kinds of paintball gear, however, they cannot take materials from an eliminated player.
* The players cannot pass across the field boundaries. They are eliminated if they do so.
* Eliminated players cannot reveal the opponent team's movements or intents verbally or by movements.
* Alcohol is prohibited before or during the game.

The Safety Rules
* Taking goggles off in the field is not permitted.
* Players must lock in the safety locks of their markers outside the playing field.
* All kinds of physical contact with opponents such as pushing/pulling is prohibited.
* It is not permitted to shoot a player with a barrel leaned against him.
* It is not permitted to shoot players who are eliminated, surrendered, being checked by the judges. It is also prohibited to shoot towards people in the safety zone.
* When your CO2 gas is over or there is a problem about the gas which is actually a small possibility- ask for help from judges. Since CO2 is a freezing gas, it can cause local freezing in the area that it contacts for a long time.
* You should play paintball with the clothes which cover your whole body that Paintsign provides you.

MORE INFO by Paintsign Paintball

These scripts and photographs are registered under Copyright 2009, Paintsign Paintball / Çankaya - Ankara - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

HORSEBACK SAFARI by RAINBOW RANCH HORSE CENTER

2009-11-29T09:19:00.000-08:00

Göreme - Nevşehir - Turkey

LOCATION SATELLITE MAP

NEVŞEHİR WEATHER FORECAST
WEATHER CHANNEL FORECAST
MSN WEATHER FORECAST
YAHOO WEATHER FORECAST
ACCU WEATHER FORECAST

MORE 42 PHOTOS BY PHOTOBUCKET ALBUM

A long time ago, two volcanos, Erciyes and Hasan erupted and Cappadocia was created - a fairytale -like area with extraordinary rock formations, hundreds of these valleys Göreme is situated - a little village where people still live according to the old traditions.

Here we find Rainbow Ranch from where it is possible to make tours through the valleys of Cappadocia by horse. For experienced and non-experienced horse - riders as well, this is a perfect way to see Cappadocia. Of course you will be accompanied by professional guides.

Discover Cappadocia By Horse... Several trips of 2 or 3 hours or whole days are possible for a reasonable price. For groups ,tours of more days are possible.

TOURS
Every day The guarantee Depart

2 Hours
Depart morning 09:00 - 11:00, Depart Afternoon 13:00 - 15:00, Depart Evening 18:00 - 20:00
Rose Valley - Blue Valley - Çavuşin Old Village - Love Valley - Göreme
( Evening Riding Sunset )

4 Hours
Depart morning 08:00 - 12:00, Depart Evening 16:00 - 20:00 )
Swords Valley - Rose Valley - White Valley - Çavuşin - Paşabağ - Zelve - Görceli
( Afternoon Riding Sunset )

All Day
Depart 09:00 Finish After Sunset
Swords Valley - Rose Valley - White Valley - Çavuşin - Paşabağ - Zelve - Love Valley - Uçhisar Pigeon Valley - Görceli - Sunset in Sunset Point in Göreme
( Lunch in Love Valley Picnic )

Full Moon Riding
Rose Valley - Blue Valley - Çavuşin Old Village - Love Valley - Göreme

MORE INFO by Rainbow Ranch Horse Center

These scripts and photographs are registered under Copyright 2009, Rainbow Ranch Horse Center / Göreme - Nevşehir - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

MOUNTAIN BIKING by ALTERNATIF OUTDOOR

2009-10-30T07:10:00.000-07:00

Marmaris - Muğla - Turkey

SATELLITE LOCATION MAP (DALYAN)
SATELLITE LOCATION MAP (GÖKOVA)
SATELLITE LOCATION MAP (MARMARIS)

MORE 34 PHOTOS BY PHOTOBUCKET ALBUM

HOLIDAY WEATHER FORECAST (DALYAN)
ACCU WEATHER FORECAST (DALYAN)

WEATHER FORECAST (GÖKOVA)
WEATHER CHANNEL FORECAST (GÖKOVA)
MSN WEATHER FORECAST (GÖKOVA)
WUNDERGROUND WEATHER FORECAST (GÖKOVA)
ACCU WEATHER FORECAST (GÖKOVA)

MARMARIS WEATHER FORECAST
BBC WEATHER FORECAST
HOLIDAY WEATHER FORECAST
WUNDERGROUND WEATHER FORECAST
ACCU WEATHER FORECAST

With our custom-designed trailer we are ready to take you and the bikes anywhere, although we have some favorites we would like to share with you. We select routes according to the season and do not force you to pedal up hill (much) in the hottest months! The best times of year for biking are spring (April-June) and autumn (September and October)

On all trips we provide bikes, helmets and an English-speaking guide.

YUVARLAK RIVER ONE-DAY

Ideal for those based in the Dalyan area. We follow irrigation channels past village houses and fruit orchards and slowly wind uphill on tracks where we are unlikely to meet another vehicle. There are opportunities to cool off in streams but you are sure to swim at lunch time while you wait for your tasty meal to be cooked. There is a lot of down hill in the afternoon.

GÖKOVA EXPLORER ONE-DAY

Ideal for those based in the Marmaris or Akyaka areas. The Gökova area has a wide variety of rural landscapes to enjoy, from the eucalyptus avenues, sesame fields and traditional villages of the plain, to the shady pine forests and limestone crags of the surrounding hills.

We run these trips on demand as individual excursions (minimum 4 people) or as part of a customized itinerary

We also have mountain bikes available for rental.

MORE INFO by Alternatif Outdoor

These scripts and photographs are registered under © Copyright 2009, Alternatif Outdoor / Marmaris - Muğla - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

FOCUS PARAGLIDING

2009-10-30T06:57:00.000-07:00

Fethiye - Muğla - Turkey

SATELLITE LOCATION MAP (ÖLÜDENİZ)
SATELLITE LOCATION MAP (Mt. BABADAĞ)
SATELLITE LOCATION MAP (FETHİYE)
LOCATION SATELLITE MAP (DALAMAN INT' AIRPORT)

MORE 19 PHOTOS BY PHOTOBUCKET ALBUM

FETHİYE WEATHER FORECAST
BBC WEATHER FORECAST
WEATHER CHANNEL FORECAST
HOLIDAY WEATHER FORECAST
MSN WEATHER FORECAST
ACCU WEATHER FORECAST

Focus Paragliding has been in operation since 1994. Our Focus team is run by experienced BHPA, USHGA and DHV qualified pilots, who have collective experience of over 25 years. Let us show you why thousands of people have enjoyed this adventure with altitude.

Our pilots have a combined experience of more than 18.000 flights as a tandem pilot and are rated in several countries. There are many tandem pilots in this sport and all of them are good in what they do. However, Focus Paragliding does employ only the best pilots and does train its own pilots as well. To be a tandem pilot takes much more than just knowing how to fly a tandem paraglider.

Since almost all of our passengers are non-experienced people and first timers, it is very important that the pilot knows how to deal with people who "jump-off" from a 6500 feet mountain for the first time in their life. Here is a short introduction of our pilots, enjoy.

At Focus Paragliding Company we offer you the tandem paragliding experience of a life time for many people dream come true Picture yourself, comfortably seated, gracefully gliding above the scenic mountain side and lagoon, feeling the light breeze on your face whilst you and your pilots soar high over Ölüdeniz beach packed with hot and sweaty sunbathers.

This rare opportunity to take off from such a fantastic back drop as Babadağ offering the breathtaking view over Ölüdeniz lagoon a spectacle in itself, coupled with the opportunity to fly tandem for up to 45 minutes, virtually heard of in any other location in the world, all adds up to ensuring the trip of a lifetime, and one not to be missed.

WHAT IS IT ALL ABOUT?
Let us show you why thousands of people have enjoyed this adventure with altitude. Contrary to popular belief, it does not involve a leap off a cliff, all you have to do is run a few steps to be airborne.

Ölüdeniz has one of the highest commercial take off sites in the world at 6550 ft. Giving you the most spectacular flight during which you will experience 360 degree turns, wing overs and even thermals, which may extend your flight. You are also given the chance to fly side by side with friends, which makes for a great photo opportunity giving you an experience you won't forget. Landing on Ölüdeniz beach is as easy as take off but after landing you may not be able to wipe the smile from your face!

We fly four times a day, every day from April to November. All Adventure activities have an element of fear that's what makes them exciting. Our pilots are professionals with years of experience. We take every precaution to make your trip and flight as safe as possible. Our excellent safety record speaks for itself, while you are up there having fun, we are take care of your fly with us and you are flying with the professionals. From the moment you get on the transport truck you are fully insured until you land on the beach again.

MOUNTAIN TRANSFERS / AIRPORT TRANSFERS
Safe, fast and on time. Focus paragliding company is also supporting pilots to get to the take off sites. Our specially converted 4x4 trucks will safely take you to the take off sites. That's the easy part. But in addition to this service Focus Paragliding experienced with drivers will not leave the take off side until.

You safely take off. All our vehicles are equipped with full first aid kits. The drivers are also good assistants for the launches with an excellent knowledge of weather. They will always keep eye on you. You couldn't possibly be in safer hands. to make this service faster for you.

Focus Paragliding company offers you safe and fast transfers in from the airport. The closest airport to Ölüdeniz is Dalaman Airport. Ölüdeniz is only 1 hour drive away from Dalaman. It will be easy to find a return charter flight for a real cheap price from most the Europe. Antalya would be the next closest airport and it takes about 3 hours to drive from Antalya to Ölüdeniz.

ÖLÜDENİZ
Ölüdeniz is located on the Mediterranean coast and is a beach resort. There is no land driving in order to get to the beach since the hotels are located on the beach. Ölüdeniz is one of the best spots for paragliding but offers many other activities as well such as scuba diving, horse riding, jeep safari and many more. And that is one of the reasons why many paragliding-pilots from all over the world come here with there family since there are many other things to do as well. We could write a book about Ölüdeniz, so the best thing to do is to come and see for yourself.

MORE INFO by Focus Paragliding

These scripts and photographs are registered under © Copyright 2009, Focus Paragliding / Fethiye - Muğla - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

Mt. AĞRI SKI TOUR by TREKKING TURKEY

2009-10-30T06:31:00.000-07:00

Doğubeyazıt - Ağrı - Turkey

LOCATION SATELLITE MAP (MT. AĞRI)
LOCATION SATELLITE MAP (ERZURUM AIRPORT)
LOCATION SATELLITE MAP (DOĞUBEYAZIT)
LOCATION SATELLITE MAP (KARS)

TURKEY WEATHER MAP
AĞRI SNOW FORECAST
AĞRI SNOW HEIGHTS (cm)
AĞRI SNOW REPORT
AĞRI WEATHER FORECAST AT TOP
AĞRI WEATHER FORECAST AT MIDDLE
AĞRI WEATHER FORECAST AT BOTTOM

MORE 2 PHOTOS BY PHOTOBUCKET ALBUM

DMİ WEATHER FORECAST (AĞRI)
ACCU WEATHER FORECAST (AĞRI)
MSN WEATHER FORECAST (AĞRI)
MSN WEATHER FORECAST (DOĞUBEYAZIT)
ACCU WEATHER FORECAST (DOĞUBEYAZIT)
DMİ WEATHER FORECAST (ERZURUM)
DMİ WEATHER FORECAST (KARS)

Since 1982, we organize specific climbing, trekking, skiing, mountain bike and horse riding tours throughout the mountains of Turkey. Years of experience has led to a professional organization with efficient local teams, state-of-art equipment and a thorough knowledge of the territory.

We offer alternative tour programs that satisfy both ardent climbers, trekkers and skiers. Our expeditions include visits to points of cultural, archeological and natural interest, enabling our participants to get acquainted with the people and history of the region.

Necessary Equipment
Two-person mountain tents, all community cooking gears and utensils are provided by 2m Tour. Climbers and trekkers should provide their personal materials. Necessary materials for all include: back-pack, woolen underware, cap and stocking, mountain-type anorak, gloves, mountain shoes (with vibram sole), gaiter, snow googles, climbing bag (small back-pack), sleeping bag, mat. Climbers should also have with them mountain pickaxe, crampons, helper rope, safety belt, perlon strap, carabine and optionally, 40 meters mountain rope, casque, flashlight, etc.

Transfers and Transportation
2m Tour assures airport-hotel-airport transfers, as well as all transportation of passangers and equipment between cities and on the mountains. Transportation between cities is usually done by small busses. Transportation on mountain roads are by small busses, trucks or tractors depending on the road. Pack animals are used for transportation of equipment where there are no roads available.

Hotels
In major cities three-star hotels, in small towns best available hotels are reserved for our guests, based on shared doubles. On the mountains mountain chalets are used when available or overnight is at camps.

Meals
All our tours are on full board basis. Meals are generally served in the hotels or in restaurants when while on road. In the camp sites a kitchen tent, cook and kitchen equipment are available and meals are prepared according to preferences of the group. Ration packages are prepared for climbs.

Guiding Services
Foreign language speaking professional tourist guides provide guidance during city and sightseeing tours. Officially licenced mountain guides and their assistants take their place on the mountains. Group size for climbing, trekking and skiing tours on mountains is 3-15 pax. A mountain guide is provided for every ten persons on Mt.Ararat tours.

Sightseeing
All sightseeing tours are made by midibus or car and jeep depending upon the size of the group and includes guiding services.

Day 1 - ISTANBUL (or ANKARA)
Arrival at Istanbul, transfer to the hotel and overnight.

Day 2 - ISTANBUL (or ANKARA) - DOĞUBEYAZIT
After breakfast transfer to the airport for flight to Erzurum. Drive to Doğubeyazıt and overnight at the hotel.

Day 3 - DOĞUBEYAZIT - Mt. AĞRI (ARARAT)
Visiting the Palace of Ishak Pasha (from the 17th. Century). Drive to Eli Village by truck. Overnight at the village.

Day 4 / 6 - Mt. AĞRI (ARARAT)
Departure to the base camp. Three days skiing on Mt. Ararat. Overnights at the camp.

Day 7 - Mt. AĞRI (ARARAT) - DOĞUBEYAZIT
Return to Doğubeyazıt via Eli Village. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 8 - DOĞUBEYAZIT - KARS
Drive to Kars via Iğdır. Sightseeing tour of Kars. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 9 - KARS - ANI - ERZURUM
Drive from Kars to Erzurum, after visiting the ruins of Ani (ancient city). Overnight at the hotel.

Day 10 - ERZURUM - ISTANBUL
Transfer to Erzurum airport for flight to Istanbul. Transfer to the hotel and overnight.

Day 11 - ISTANBUL
Full day sightseeing tour of Istanbul. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 12 - ISTANBUL
Transfer to the airport.

MORE INFO by Trekking Turkey

These scripts and photographs are registered under © Copyright 2009, Trekking Turkey / Marmaris - Muğla - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

HUNTING by ANATOLIA SAFARI

2009-10-16T02:22:00.000-07:00

Antalya - Turkey

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Anatolian Safari is one of the most distinguished hunting companies in Turkey. Long-standing experience in the field of tourism is a good reference for us as hosts. We would like to accompany you in Turkey and Middle East countries on your hunting for wild boar, bezoar ibex, Anatolian sheep, Anatolian red deer, Anatolian reo deer, Anatolian chamois, Armenian sheep, Anatolian bear, wolf, maral stag, marcopolo, Siberia reo deer and Eastern Dagestan tour.

Experienced guides, comfortable 4 wheels, untouched reserves, best hunting organization and well-equipped accommodation (hotels, pensions, village houses and fly camps) enable you a comfortable, reliable and unforgettable hunting trip. You can combine your hunting trip with various activities and discover the traces of the oldest civilizations of Anatolia, the natural beauties of Turkey, as well as the culture of Turkmen.

STALKING UNDER FULL MOON
Wild Boar ( Sus scrof )
Stalking under full moon or snow (both in winter season) is the best opportunity for wild boar hunters who want to relax during deer-stalking in the untouched nature, landscape or hunting grounds in Turkey, experience a special culture, thus build warm relationships and hunt a strong wild boar to decorate their corner of honour with those excellent trophies. After the arrival in Turkey, the hunting trip starts at the airport for the hunter where a representative of Anatolia Safari awaits to help with the customs procedures. This is followed by a well-organized transfer to the pre-booked hunting ground under professional guidance.

The 5 day-hunting is carried out in hunting grounds which have been made ready for accommodation. Well-oriented guides are awaiting there to inform you about baiting and strong wild boars. The baiting place is seen in day light before the hunting. A test shooting starts the hunting! According to the achievement of night hunting, we may change the baiting places until we reach the desired number of wild boars. As the statistics indicate, the best wild boars, even the record wild boars were hunted by stalking hunting. At daytime you can spend your free time for relaxation or sightseeing tours to the nearby environment. Here you can also enjoy the Turkish cuisine.
Note! These hunting trips can be combined with various holiday activities (hunting and beach holidays;-blue voyage;-wellness;-golf etc)

DRIVEN HUNT
Wild Boar ( Sus scrof )
Such a successful and joyful driven hunt can not be organized anywhere else but in Turkey, where there are so many natural boar herds, perfect organizations and dreamlike hunting grounds altogether. After the arrival in Turkey, the hunting trip starts at the airport where a representative of Anatolia Safari awaits to help with the customs procedures. This is followed by a well-organized transfer to the pre-booked hunting ground under professional guidance. The 5-day-hunting (3 days upon request) is carried out in hunting grounds which have been made ready for accommodation. Well-oriented guides have observed the whole ground, tracked wild boar herds and organized shooting points for you.

It is important for the hunters to see the hunting region, the driven team and the dogs in advance. The driven hunt starts with strategy planning and test shootings carried out far away from the hunting region. According to the hunting achievement, 2 hunts take place in the morning and 2 in the afternoon. The statistics show that hunters hunt 15-20 wild boars a day on average. Most of the hunted wild boars have excellent tusk lengths measuring 20-24 cm and more. The nights can be spend by evaluating the day, enjoying the Turkish cuisine (roast venison on request) and relaxing or celebrating.
Note: Hunters may bring their dogs with them.

SPECIES
Bezoar - Ibex ( Capra aegagrus)
Excellent results with Bezoar Ibex! The successful "

The Anatolian Bezoar Ibex has a upper body length of 135-150 cm on average and a shoulder height of 90 - 100 cm. The ibexes can weigh up to 100 kg, whereas the females have a smaller body structure. The ibex has majestic horns curved up, back, and downward. The length of the horns vary from 90 to 150 cm, whereas the female horns measure from 25-30 cm. Both sexes have goatee. Ibexes have dark brown fur in summer; the female fur is more reddish or gold brown. In winter both sexes have grayish fur. The Ibexes have a black stripe from the shoulder to the front leg, the limps and the neck. This stripe darkens as the Ibexes are in the mating season. The Bezoar Ibex is regarded as one of the unique Ibexes in the world owing to its perfect body color and black winter fur.

Anatolian Sheep ( Ovis gmelinii anatolica )
Owing to its special features, concerning appearance, way of life etc., the Anatolian sheep have a unique place among their kind. The Anatolian sheep have been under preservation because of heavy hunting during the last centuries. A long, tiring but successful development project carried out since the thirties made it possible for the Turkish government to release very few licences for top Anatolian sheep with great trophies in 2006.

The prairie of central Anatolia in Konya is the only habitat of Anatolian sheep in the whole world. The Anatolian sheep have smooth fur in summers. The color of rams is red brown in summers, mostly with a white back - stripe and the sheep are brownish. In winter both sexes are darker and have long hair (4 cm on the body, the ram has 10 cm on the breast) on their thick winter fur. The rams have snail - like, screwed, impressive horns up to 80 cm. It has been observed that old rams have reached mighty trophies during the long preservation period.

Anatolian Red Deer ( Cervus Elaphus )
The Anatolian Red Deer, which is also the symbol of Anatolia Safari, was one of the most liked animals which were hunted by the oldest civilizations of Anatolia. So much that the Hittites admired this wild species as their symbol of power. On account of heavy hunting in the last centuries, the Anatolian red deer was threatened with extinction, so that it was put under preservation for more than 70 years. The trophies of Anatolian red deer, hunted during 2004 - 2005 with restricted licences, had enormous sizes and reached a weight up to 14,5 kg.

The habitat of Anatolian red deer is the triangle area covering the Mediterranean, Aegean and Central Anatolia and stretching to the North of the country to the Black Sea region. It reaches a upper body length of 2 meters, 1.50 meters shoulder hight and a weight of 300 kg. The horns, which are grown only on males, are located on a so - called crown. The horns are shed from February to April every year and reformed in 120 days. The colorization varies according to the season, sex and age: brown grey in winter, redish brown in summer, light brown yellowish around the tail. The males are considerably bigger than the females. Owing to its unique body structure, the Anatolian red deer is one of the most important red deer in the world together with the European red deer and Caucasian maral.

Anatolian Roe Deer ( Capreolus capreolus )
The Anatolian Roe Deer is one of the most popular hunts in Turkey owing to the perfect quality of its trophy and restricted licences. The West, Middle and East Black Sea regions as well as the eastern Mediterranean region is the habitat of Anatolian Roe Deer. The upper body length of a full - grown Anatolian Roe Deer is 100 - 140 cm and the shoulder length is 60 - 90 cm. Well - fed bucks reach a weight up to 20 kg, whereas the female weighs 15% less. The red brownish summer fur changes to dark brown in winter. The horns of an Anatolian Roe Deer weigh 450 - 500 gr on average, however, some of the top bucks which were hunted in the last years had horns weighing 650 - 700 gr. The hunting season is from May to November.

Anatolian Chamois ( Rupricapra rupricapra )
The licences for the hunting of Anatolian Chamoise are restricted. Living in Kaçkar, north - east Anatolia, Turkey, the chamois prefer steep slopes and peaks at 2000 - 3000 m hight. They have a shoulder length reaching 80 cm and a weight of 50 kg. Male and females have black horns, measuring 20 - 28 cm, which grow on their forehead and the points bend backwards like hooks. The fur colorization varies, but chamois have a dark back strip and a dark head marking. In summer, Chamoise live near snowfields, where they feed on grass and herbs. In winter, they descend to the deep located mountain forests, where they feed mainly on buds plait. Chamoise live in herds consisting of 5 - 30 animals.

Anatolian Bear ( Ursus thibetanus )
Anatolian Bear hunting could not be carried out since 1997 according to the Turkish hunting laws. The hunted bears so far reached a weight up 350 kg. The whole Black Sea region, mainly Bolu and Artvin area and Mediterranean region provide a habitat for Anatolian Bear. It is expected that the future Turkish government grant licences as the number of bears have increased during the preservation time.

Armenian Sheep ( Ovis gmelinii gmelinii
Hunting for Armenian Sheep, which was forbidden until last year, was granted licence but only restricted. Their horns reach a top quality length up to 100 cm. The habitat of Armenian Sheep covers the open mountain area (up to 3000 m), the rocky and dry grounds of Van and Ağrı regions. The Armenian Sheep has a smooth fur. The color of rams is red brown in summers, mostly with a white back - stripe and the sheep are brownish. In winter both sexes are darker. The rams have snail - like screwed horns, whereas the horns of the females are little and bend backwards.

TOURS

Wild Species : Wild Boar (Sus scrof)
Hunting Season : Throughout the year! Full Moon phase of each month
Hunting Grounds : Mediterranean Region, Black Sea Region, Central and East Turkey
Arrival : Destinations; Istanbul, Ankara, Antalya, Adana, Trabzon and Erzurum. A representative of Anatolia Safari will be awaiting to help you with the customs procedures at the airport and do the transfer.
Trip Duration : 7 days / 5 hunting days
Participants : 1 - 5 hunters
Hunting : Stalking or driven. Stalking under full moon!
Accommodation : Hotels, pensions, cottages or fly camps
Trip Fee : Catalogue fee for 2009/2010 hunting season
Includes : 7 days full-board accommodation, hunting licences, area fees, customs handling, transfer from/to the airport, hunting organization up to regarded days, guiding, interpreter
Excludes : International airfares, pre-scouting, hotel before/after the hunt, hotel extras, insurance, extra trophies (as catalogue), sightseeing tours, gratitudes, trophy shipment

Wild Species : Bezoar - Ibex (Capra aegagrus)
Hunting Season : Beginning of August - end of March. End of December as the Ibex exhibits a special colour during the rutting season
Hunting Grounds : Aegean, Mediterranean Region, East and North East Anatolian
Arrival : Destinations; Antalya, Adana, Trabzon, Erzurum. A representative of Anatolia Safari will be awaiting to help you with the customs procedures at the airport and do the transfer.
Trip Duration : 7 days / 5 hunting days
Participants : 1 - 3 hunters
Hunting : Stalking or Driven
Accommodation : Hotels, pensions, cottages or fly camps
Trip Fee : Catalogue fee for 2009/2010 hunting season
Includes : 1 Bezoar-Ibex (90 cm horn length), 7 days full-board accommodation ( 5 days hunt), hunting licences, area fee, customs handling, transfer from/to the airport, hunting organization up to regarded days, guiding, interpreter
Excludes : International airfares, pre-scouting, hotel before/after the hunt, hotel extras, insurance, sightseeing tours, gratitudes, trophy shipment, extra trophies.

Wild Species : Anatolian Sheep (Ovis gmelinii anatolica)
Hunting Season : Beginning of August - end of March
Hunting Grounds : Central Anatolia
Arrival : Destinations; Ankara, Antalya. A representative of Anatolia Safari will be awaiting to help you with the customs procedures at the airport and do the transfer.
Trip Duration : 7 days / 5 hunting days
Participants : 1 - 3 hunters
Hunting : Stalking or driven
Accommodation : Hotels, pensions, cottages or fly camps
Trip Fee : Catalogue fee for 2009/2010 hunting season
Includes : 1 Anatolian Sheep, 7 days full-board accommodation, hunting licences, area fees customs handling, transfer from/to the airport, hunting organization up to regarded days, guiding, interpreter
Excludes : International airfares, pre-scouting, hotel before/after the hunt, hotel extras, insurance, sightseeing tours, gratitudes, trophy shipment

Wild Species : Anatolian Red Deer (Cervus Elaphus)
Hunting Season : Beginning of September - end of December
Hunting Grounds : Mediterranean Region, Black Sea Region, Central
Arrival : Destinations; Istanbul, Ankara, Antalya. A representative of Anatolia Safari will be awaiting to help you with the customs procedures at the airport and do the transfer.
Trip Duration : 7 days / 5 hunting days
Participants : 1 - 3 hunters
Hunting : Stalking or Driven
Accommodation : Hotels, pensions, cottages or fly camps
Trip Fee : Catalogue fee for 2009/2010 hunting season
Includes : 1 Anatolian Red Deer, 7 days full-board accommodation, hunting licences, area fees, customs handling, transfer from/to the airport, hunting organization up to regarded days, guiding, interpreter
Excludes : International airfares, pre-scouting, hotel before/after the hunt, hotel extras, insurance, sightseeing tours, gratitudes trophy shipment, extra trophies (as catalogue)

Wild Species : Anatolian Roe Deer (Capreolus capreolus)
Hunting Season : Beginning of May - end of October
Hunting Grounds : Mediterranean Region, Western Black Sea Region
Arrival : Destinations; Istanbul, Ankara, Adana. A representative of Anatolia Safari will be awaiting to help you with the customs procedures at airport and do the transfer
Trip Duration : 7 days / 5 hunting days
Participants : 1 - 3 hunters
Hunting : Stalking or Driven
Accommodation : Hotels, pensions, cottages or fly camps
Trip Fee : Catalogue fee for 2009/2010 hunting season
Includes : 1 Anatolian Roe Deer, 7 days full-board accommodation, hunting licences, area fees, customs handling, transfer from/to the airport, hunting organization up to regarded days, guiding, interpreter
Excludes : International airfares, pre-scouting, hotel before/after the hunt, hotel extras, insurance, sightseeing tours, gratitudes, trophy shipment, extra trophies.

Wild Species : Anatolian Chamoise (Rupicapra rupicapra)
Hunting Season : Beginning of September - end of December
Hunting Grounds : North-East and East Anatolia
Arrival : Destination Erzurum. A representative of Anatolia Safari will be awaiting to help you with the customs procedures at airport and do the transfer
Trip Duration : 7 days / 5 hunting days
Participants : 1 - 3 hunters
Hunting : Stalking or Driven
Accommodation : Hotels, pensions, cottages or fly camps
Trip Fee : Catalogue fee for 2009/2010 hunting season
Includes : 1 Anatolian Chamoise, 7 days full-board accommodation, hunting licences, area fees, customs handling, transfer from/to the airport, hunting organization up to regarded days, guiding, interpreter
Excludes : International airfares, pre-scouting, hotel before/after the hunt, hotel extras, insurance, sightseeing tours, gratitudes, trophy shipment, extra trophies

Wild Species : Armenian Sheep (Ovis gmelinii)
Hunting Season : Beginning of September - end of January
Hunting Grounds : South - East Anatolia
Arrival : Destinations; Adana, Erzurum. A representative of Anatolia Safari will be awaiting to help you with the customs procedures at the airport and do the transfer.
Trip Duration : 7 days / 5 hunting days
Participants : 1 - 3 hunters
Hunting : Stalking or driven
Accommodation : Hotels, pensions, cottages or fly camps
Trip Fee : Catalogue fee for 2009/2010 hunting season
Includes : 1 Armenian Sheep, 7 days full-board accommodation, hunting licences, area fees, customs handling, transfer from/to the airport, hunting organization up to regarded days, guiding, interpreter
Excludes : International airfares, pre-scouting, hotel before/after the hunt, hotel extras, insurance, sightseeing tours, gratitudes, trophy shipment

Wild Species : Wolf (Canis lupus)
Hunting Season : No licences
Hunting Grounds : Mediterranean, Black Sea, North-East Region
Arrival : Destinations; Istanbul, Ankara, Antalya, Erzurum. A representative of Anatolia Safari will be awaiting to help you with the customs procedures at airport and do the transfer
Trip Duration : 7 days / 5 hunting days
Participants : 1 - 3 hunters
Hunting : Stalking or Driven
Accommodation : Hotels, pensions, cottages or fly camps
Trip Fee : Catalogue fee for 2009/2010 hunting season
Includes : 1 Wolf, 7 days full-board accommodation, hunting licences, area fees, customs handling, transfer from/to the airport, hunting organization up to regarded days, guiding, interpreter
Excludes : International airfares, pre-scouting, hotel before/after the hunt, hotel extras, insurance, sightseeing tours, gratitudes, trophy shipment

Wild Species : Anatolian Bear (Ursus thibetanus)
Hunting Season : No licences
Hunting Grounds : Mediterranean, Black Sea, North-East Region
Arrival : Destinations; Istanbul, Ankara, Antalya, Trabzon. A representative of Anatolia Safari will be awaiting to help you with the customs procedures at airport and do the transfer
Trip Duration : 7 days / 5 hunting days
Participants : 1 - 3 hunters
Hunting : Stalking or Driven
Accommodation : Hotels, pensions, cottages or fly camps
Trip Fee : Catalogue fee for 2009/2010 hunting season
Includes : 1 Anatolian Bear, 7 days full-board accommodation, hunting licences, area fees, customs handling, transfer from/to the airport, hunting organization up to regarded days, guiding, interpreter
Excludes : International airfares, pre-scouting, hotel before/after the hunt, hotel extras, insurance, sightseeing tours, gratitudes, trophy shipment

MORE INFO by Anatolia Safari

These scripts and photographs are registered under Copyright 2009, Anatolia Safari / Antalya - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

HORSEBACK SAFARI by DESPORADO RANCH

2009-10-15T15:47:00.000-07:00

Yanıklar, Fethiye - Muğla - Turkey

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Horse riding holidays in Turkey, the country where East meets West. Turkey is a land full of wonder and historic sites. If you are looking for a horse riding holiday that offers great riding, great horses and culture then this is the destination for You ! This is Your invitation for an unparalleled experience . Once you had done it our way - you will never forget !

We are a family company which was founded in 1997 in the South-West of Turkey. At the moment we have 15 saddled horses available for guests, varying in size from coach horses to small ponies. Our horses are Arabs and Quarter-Horses, Thoroughbred, Paint-Horse, Haflinger, Shetland pony and Haflinger Mix.

We offer tasty German and Turkish dishes, all home cooked using fresh local produce and prepared under hygienic conditions.

Our ranch is set in the beautiful countryside of Yanıklar and is near to a sandy beach between Fethiye and Göcek. We live together with our children, horses, dogs and cats and pay detailed attention to the requirements of our clientele whilst maintaining a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere.

Accommodation will be provided at the Ranch, in comfortable, light double-bedded rooms or on a campsite in tents . We are even able to accommodate children over the age of 8 who wish to holiday without their parents. They would be made welcome (and supervised) as part of our own family.

Our family company is in the South-West of Turkey on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea, in close proximity to the beach
Distances : Çalış (Fethiye) appr. 8 km, Göcek (Center) appr. 10 km, Dalaman Airport appr. 35 min

Daily and Half-Day Tours
Do you want to complete your holiday with a few hours on the back of one of our horses? Then just call us now and arrange a date for a day or half-day tour. Here a few examples of the structure of a short tour:

Beach Tour (2 h tour for beginners)
Adventure Tour (Half day tour for Riders)
Adventure Mountain Tour (5-7 h tour for riders)

Horse Pension - Livery
The horses' accommodation will be in open single boxes or in an open stable. Your horse will be fed twice a day with hay, power food and vegetables. Fresh, clean water and salt and minerals are available at all times. Between meals your horse will go out to paddock with the other horses. If you wish we'll clean, lunge or train your horse every day. Of course your horse's saddlery and any other equipment will be stored securely at all times in a clean and airy environment. Fees for the smith, vet, etc. will incur an extra charge.

Riding Lessons
Have you ever wanted to learn how to ride? Can you imagine yourself on horseback in the beautiful countryside of Turkey, taking in the breathtaking scenery, with the sun on your face, feeling relaxed? Who Wouldn't Dream Of That? Private riding lesson with fees that can are affordable for everyone. For beginners and children over 8 years old we can offer a Single Lesson. For children under the age of 8 please contact us with your details and we will do our utmost to accommodate you.

Riding Holiday
Would you like to go on tour with our horses for a whole week? Then the riding holiday is just the right thing for you. It's your choice 3 or 6 hours per day in the saddle. Accommodation will be at the Ranch in our vicinity. From there your can complement your riding holiday by engaging in a host of the other activities on offer. Example for a riding holiday (ride 3 h per day) Example for a riding holiday (ride 6 h per day). Important : Sundays Off

Holidays for Kids - Children Camp - alone or with the Family
Your Kids are crazy for Horses? And daddy what to go on a Boat Trip ? No Problem for us. Have a wonderful Time here in Turkey for all Members of the Family. Special Kids Camp in the summer. We organize your Holidays. Accommodation at the Ranch. Family Welcome.

Trekking
On the Trekking Holiday you'll spend a whole week with your horse. Even at night you will erect your tent next to your four legged friend.

Riding package 1 : 1 Week Riding holiday, 5 Half day trips, Breakfast incl
Riding package 2 : 1 Week, 5 Day trips, Breakfast incl.
Riding package 3 : Working Holiday from 14 Days to 21 Days incl. Full board, Bed in Family room, Bath / Shower outside or Tent
Special Riding Package 4 : Trekking: 5 Days Adventure Full! (Full Board , 4 Nights in a Tent, 3 Nights Double room incl.) min 3 - max 7 Person
Accommodation provided at the Ranch in big, comfortable Guest Rooms. Ask for Riding packages without Accommodation and Meal. Separate Room per Person for 7 Nights, if its available. With Breakfast / With Half board 7 Nights in Double room per Person with Breakfast / with Half board
Novice & Beginner Package 5 : 10 Hours Riding( up to 2 Hours a Day ) or Lessons
Rider Package 6 : 5 x Half day trips (up to 4 Hours longest)
Rider Package 7 : 5 x Day trips ( tours up to 7 Hours)

MORE INFO by Desporado Ranch

These scripts and photographs are registered under Copyright 2009, Desporado Ranch / Yanıklar, Fethiye - Muğla - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

PAINTBALL by AKAY PAINTBALLS

2009-10-10T12:54:00.000-07:00

Üsküdar - Istanbul - Turkey

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Akay paintball is one of the first paintball firms. Akay paintball is locomotive firm of Turkey because of effort for evolution of paintball in Turkey and abroad. It is working for to help playing paintball European standards by importing products under control of Turkish legal permissions. Akay paintball is one of the biggest supplier of near geography by representing foreign firms. It is distributing WDP, Tippmann, TC paintball and ASIA paintball. By adding its wallet firms like NPS, DYE, Procaps, Scott, Adrenalin Games, Crossfire, Halo, Empire, ReBall Akay started to sell famous remarks' products.

PAINTBALL
Paintball what is sportive, strategic,funny and educative team game, makes physical movements and intelligence work together. This game makes people move together, de-stress people and conduces team affiliation.

Yes! you heard this game and watched it on tv.
Here a chance for you to join and play this game.
At This game that you played when you were child, you feel adrenalin in your blood Try this game.
We are sure you will like very much.
Put away your hesitations and doubts and dream yourself playing, pointing, both hiding and searching.
None of other games are not excited like paintball.
You are trying to walking between the trees trying not to make a noise.
When you are passing the rock in front of you, you are seeing 3 players of opponent team.
But they didn't notice you. You are ranging and trying not to pull the trigger unnecessary because of excitement.

And you are pulling the trigger. The paint module is explodes on them. SPLAT !

They were unprepared and become a target.
They were eliminated by herbal paint module which doesn't have toxic materials.
Now opponent team knows where you are. Were you able to signal for help?
What must you do? It is time to make a new plan. But it is hard to live this plan and finish. But don't worry.
This game will teach you what must you do. In the game area taking off the mask is absolutely forbidden.
You can't fire to people who don't have mask.

SECURITY
It is forbidden to fire at 5 meters and under 5 meters
At the game time you must wear clothes which doesn't exposure skin. It is suggested using Akay paintball clothes.
When out of game you must uncock your gun. Gun barrel must look down or up.
Player can't fire the players who are in safety area. Guard of gun is opened with referee's whistle and is closed with referee's whistle.
You cant fire the player who holds his gun on his hand or who holds his two hands up.
Barrel must be always holded showing up.
When eliminated player is leaving the pitch or going to penalty area he can't fire and can't be fired.
Players can't make physical contact.
Before or during the game you can't drink alcohol.
People who have psychical trouble or allergy,must declare it before the game.
Players must pay attention to landed property(trenches, rises, slippy areas, upper branches of tree etc.)
Modules' speed is 100 m/s.So It can cause rush on the skin,livids and grazes.
PIf paintball gun releases Co2,you mustn't breathe the gas. Co2 is freezer and asphyxiant gas.

SCENARIOS

Double Flag : Double flag is the most played and,classic paintball game. Teams start from stations which have 2 flags both side. The objective is taking the opponent's flag and bringing somewhere assigned before.

One Flag : One flag is the game that one team is trying to keep the flag and other team is trying to take flag.

Take The Flag : Take the flag is the game that both teams are trying to take the flag in middle of the area and going to opponents' area

Save The President : One of the players,referee,or audience is chosen president. One of the teams become bodyguards of president and other teams become militants. Mission of the bodyguards is keeping alive president in assigned time. Objective of the mission is taking the president from his station and escorting him to target station.

Hostage Operation : In this game audience or player is chosen hostage. Hostage is with militants. Savers' objective is saving the hostage alive before the time is up

Last Man : In this game everybody is lonely. There is no time limit. The player, who becomes lonely without eliminating wins. Most interesting part of the scenario is appointments part. According to this part:players can make an appointments between them until eliminate to other players. But they don't have to obey this rules.

Buddy : It looks like last man scenario. But in this game there are teams of 2 men. And they can't make temporarily appointments. The team who stay alive last wins.

Two Teams Come One Team Leaves : It is a classic speedball. It has combat scenario and rules are easy. 2 teams come in area and one team wins.

Run Rabbit Run : One of players is rabbit and the others are hunter.

Escape : Opponent teams' player is escapee. Other team is guardians.

Terminator : One of the players is terminator and starts to annihilate. There is only one way to stop:hit him from his hand

Mutants : After 3rd world war the war is still there. The people who is hitted in this war is transform to a mutant so their job is too hard.

RULES
Fire in closer than 5 meters is dangerous and forbidden. The player is picketed. He goes to penalty area. And he continues the game after referee's command.
Players must stand after their fortresses at the beginning of the game. The game starts after captains saying ok to referee and his whistle. Before the whistle firing is dangerous and forbidden.

BEING HITTED
* It comes true when player is hitted from one part of his body includes hands and legs(also gun).If bullet crashes somewhere and splashes other player it is invalid. If the bullet hits a player and doesn't explode the player must tell the referee in accordance with fair play.
* The player who is hitted must hold his hands and gun on his head. He goes penalty area and referee escorts him. In this time helmet mustn't be taken off absolutely. During the game the player who feels hitted or fire someone must make the referee control. The referee whistles and stops the game. At this time players can't move and fire.
* The players who behaves wrong, banned. If two players hits themselves same time, both of them are banned. If a player hits other after his elimination, it is invalid. After referee's stop whistle every movement is cause of ban. Psychical move is forbidden every time.
* When hitted player is joining the game with referee's command, he starts from the nearest shelter.
* If a player spends all bullets, to take new bullet he comes to referee's safety area holding his hands or gun on his hand. After he takes bullets he goes the shelter which he left. To fire this player is forbidden.
* If a team's all players eliminated; game over. If a team's all players spend all bullets they take a break and buy bullet.
* The team who finishes scenario completely, wins the game.
* If in assigned team; all players of one team are not eliminated and not finish scenario, game finishes with referee's whistle. Game is 3 sets and each set is 15 minutes. Between sets there are 5 minutes breaks. Next set each player must start where were they previous set. To start different place is forbidden.

At the beginning of each set, players start the game at their fortresses.

Point System
Hitted player 1 pts, Hitted captain 5 pts, The team which is hitted minimum 5 pts, Technic ban 3 pts, Taking flag 10 pts (hitting player who took the flag before he went his fortress, Hanging flag 20 point.
Pointing system can be changed according to teams' appointments.

MORE INFO by Akay Paintballs

These scripts and photographs are registered under Copyright 2009, Akay Paintballs / Üsküdar - Istanbul - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

ATV QUAD SAFARI by RED MONSTER QUAD SAFARI

2009-10-10T12:30:00.000-07:00

ROCK CLIMBING by TRANSNATURE

2009-05-18T07:16:00.000-07:00

Antalya - Turkey

LOCATION SATELLITE MAP (ANTALYA)

ANTALYA WEATHER FORECAST
BBC WEATHER FORECAST
WEATHER CHANNEL WEATHER FORECAST
ACCU WEATHER FORECAST
WETTER RTL WEATHER FORECAST
HOLIDAY WEATHER FORECAST
YAHOO WEATHER FORECAST
MSN WEATHER FORECAST
WUNDERGROUND WEATHER FORECAST

MORE 4 PHOTOS BY PHOTOBUCKET ALBUM

1. SPORTIVE CLIMBING

Top rope : You can do a safe climbing on the rocks which have flat lengths less then 25 m by using this techniques. The people who have no medical and physical problems can make this climbing.

Individual number : Ten persons
Guide number : Experienced two guides
Difficulty level : III+ - VIII+ in the UIAA standards
Time of climbing : Daily
Regions : Antalya

Practice Sites (ANTALYA)

a) AKYARLAR : At the seaside, it has too hard surfaces of rocks. There are almost ten different ways and each one is almost 20 m. long.
Difficulty level : III+ - VI+ in the UIAA standards

b) SİVRİ MOUNTAIN : This climbing which is made on the hard surfaces of rocks contains mostly easy and nice choices.
Difficulty level : IV - VI+ in the UIAA standards

c) HURMA ROCKS : At the side of the mountain, there are suitable surfaces for climbing. There are almost six ways. The length is nearly 20 m.
Difficulty level : III - VII+ in the UIAA standards

d) OLYMPOS : At the region, which Olympos river-serviced from Antic Olympos City- meets the sea, there will be an enjoyable climbing on the rocks which are 20 m. above the beach.
Difficulty level : V+ - VII in the UIAA standards

2. LONG WALL CLIMBING ( 100 - 200 meters)

The people who want to do this kind of climbing, must have the physical abilities which are needed. Because the course is long, the physical performance is too important. Before the climbing, there will be an information for an hour.

Individual number : 2-3
Guide number : 2 experienced guides
Difficulty level : Between III+ - VII in the UIAA standards
Time of climbing : Daily
Regions : Antalya

Practice Sites (ANTALYA)

a) SİVRİ MOUNTAIN : At the east face of Sivri Mountain, there will be climbing up to 200 m. on the hard rocks. Going down will be by the same way by a rope.
Difficulty level : UIAA standards III+ - VII

b) HURMA ROCKS : There are three ways for climbing between 100-200 m. climbings are so enjoyable and exciting.
Difficulty level : IV - VI+ in the UIAA standards

3. SPECIAL CLIMBING

The quests who will join this tour, have to show us their documents, which will tell us whether they are experienced in climbing and if they are, where they have climbed before. The climber must have enough knowledge and experience in order to climb. They will spend the night on the climbing wall for 1-2 days.

Individual number : 1-3
Guide : An experienced guide
Difficulty level : III+ - V+
Time of climbing : 2 days 1 night or 3 days 2 nights
Regions : Antalya

Practice Sites (ANTALYA)

a) SİVRİ MOUNTAIN : East Wall, the length of way is 1.050 m
Difficulty level : III+ V+ in the UIAA standards
Time of climbing : 2 days 1 night or 3 days 2 nights

b) DASTARATAN MT. : East Wall, the length of way is 800 m
Difficulty level : IV+ - VI+ in the UIAA standards
Time of climbing : 2 days 1 night

c) DELİK MOUNTAIN : East Wall, the length of way is 1.200 m
Difficulty level : IV+ - VI+ in the UIAA standards
Time of climbing : 3 days 2 nights

MORE INFO by Transnature Rock Climbing

These scripts and photographs are registered under © Copyright 2009, Transnature / Antalya - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

CERAMOS PARAGLIDING

2008-04-04T11:10:00.000-07:00

Ören, Milas - Muğla - Turkey

SATELLITE LOCATION MAP (MİLAS)
SATELLITE LOCATION MAP (MİLAS AIRPORT)

WEATHER FORECAST
WEATHER CHANNEL FORECAST
MSN WEATHER FORECAST
WUNDERGROUND WEATHER FORECAST
ACCU WEATHER FORECAST

MORE 48 PHOTOS BY PHOTOBUCKET ALBUM

Kind(s) of flights : Mountain flight (walk up & fly down) - soaring - thermals - XC : mountain
Orientation(s) : S - SW - Flyable : SE - W
GPS coordinates : Take off : 37.0389 N; 27.9885 E - Elevation : 588 m.

Take off : Near the Ören Village
Landing : Beach

Going there : Not available
Comments : You can fligth here whole year
Weather hazards : Not available
Flight regulation : Not available

MORE INFO by Ceramos Paragliding

These scripts and photographs are registered under © Copyright 2008, Ceramos Paragliding / Ören, Milas - Muğla - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

Mt. KAÇKAR CLIMBING VIDEO TOUR

2008-04-04T11:04:00.000-07:00

Kaçkar Mountain Climbing / Yusufeli - Artvin - Turkey

Mt. AĞRI CLIMBING VIDEO TOUR

2008-04-04T11:00:00.000-07:00

Mount Ağrı Climbing / Doğubeyazıt - Ağrı - Turkey

Mt. KAÇKAR EXPEDITION by ARARAT TREK

2008-04-04T10:42:00.000-07:00

Yusufeli - Artvin - Turkey

SATELLITE LOCATION MAP (ERZURUM AIRPORT)
SATELLITE LOCATION MAP (YUSUFELİ)
SATELLITE LOCATION MAP (ALTIPARMAK VILLAGE)
SATELLITE LOCATION MAP (MT. KAÇKAR)

WEATHER FORECAST (ERZURUM)

ACCU WEATHER FORECAST (ALTIPARMAK VILLAGE)
ACCU WEATHER FORECAST (YUSUFELİ)

TURKEY WEATHER MAP
ARTVİN SNOW HEIGHTS (cm)

MORE 38 PHOTOS BY PHOTOBUCKET ALBUM

MT. KAÇKAR / Ascent 7 Days

In the rainy and lush landscapes of northeastern Turkey, the Kaçkar mountains form the northern section of the Anatolian mountain chain. The Kaçkar - Kavron summit, at an altitude of 3,937 meters, (12,933 feet), is the highest point in the range. Extensive glacier and water erosion have given these mountains their craggy, rugged look. The Kaçkars rise in between the shores of the Black Sea to the north and the River Çoruh valley to the south. On the northern flank, a wide variety of wildflowers grow in the rainy climate.

Much of the area is cultivated by the local people who grow tea, citrus orchards, fruits and grape vines. Much of the area is a national park and has an extensive collection of native flora and fauna, including the local bears, mountain goats and many birds. The area is also frequented by many bird watchers.

Kaçkarlar is in east Black Sea Mountain Series. The peak of the Kaçkar mountain is 3937 m (12,933 feet) You can see many tones of green from the Black Sea shore to the mountains in Rize. There is a Trans Kaçkar route from Artvin to Rize for trekkers. You will see wonderful crater lakes and flowers in the area. The Kaçkar is similar to the Swiss Alps, with meadows of stunning flowers and wooden chalets. At the top of Mt Kaçkar, you will be rewarded with the most stunning views of hundreds of snow-capped peaks and crater lakes.

The region enjoys an almost subtropical climate of temperate yet rainy weather with an average temperature of 14° C. The lowest temperature, 7° C., fall in the month of January while August sees the hottest days reaching a maximum recorded temperature of 22.6° C.

The Kaçkars rise in between the shores of the Black Sea to the north and the River Çoruh valley to the south. On the northern flank, a good variety of vegetation flourishes in the rainy climate. Up to 500 meters above sea level, tea plantations and citrus orchards cover the hillsides. Chestnut, hornbeam, beech and other large-leafed trees forest the slopes to 750 meters. Between 750-1500 meters of elevation, pines mix in with the large leafed trees forest the slopes to 750 meters. Between 750-1500 meters of elevation, pines mix in with the large leafed trees until gradually they remain the only species of tree from 1500-2000 meters. Alpine meadows and other grassy vegetation covers the ground above 2100 meters. On the southern faces of the Kaçkars, which receive strong sunshine and less precipitation, the agriculture is based on the cultivation of fruits and vines. As on the north side in the higher elevations, meadows of wild flowers and grass blanket the slopes up to 2300 meters.

Elevation : 3937 meters, 12,897 feet
Location : Turkey, East Black Sea Range
Range : Caucasus Mountains
Prominence : 2271 m / 7451 ft
Type : Tectonics Mountain range

TRIP ITINERARY

DAY 1 : Fly from Istanbul to Erzurum. Transfer to Yusufeli Barhal (Altıparmak) Village. Overnight at the pension in Barhal. Here you will have diner with your fellow trekkers and meet your guide.

DAY 2 : Walk to from Barhal to Yaylalar, a small village at the foothills of Mt Kaçkar. The area is known for its beautiful streams, flora and fauna. We will stay overnight in Yaylalar - you can choose to stay at the pension or you can camp.

DAY 3 : We begin our trek to the Dilberdüzü base camp - 2900 m. On the way we will pass through Havek and Olgunlar villages. As we begin to climb we will leave the grassy plains and start to head up through the alpine plains.

DAY 4 : Ascend Kaçkar Summit. (3917 m) - this takes around 5-6 hrs and involves some walking on snow but little actual climbing. If you do not wish to go the summit there are many day trips that you can do instead. There are many stunning lakes in the area and you can go for a swim. Camp at Dilberdüzü.

DAY 5 : Trekking from Dilberdüzü down to Dobedüzü. This is a nice and high trek with beautiful views of the lakes, streams and wildflowers. This provides for a stunning contrast to the jagged rocks of Mt Kaçkar. If you are lucky you may get to see the native bears. Camp at Dobedüzü.

DAY 6 : Trek back down to the Olgunlar Village and head back to Barhal (Altıparmak) Village for a well earned rest at the pension. The delicious local cuisine and a hot shower await you.

DAY 7 : Visit Barhal and Oshk Venk Churches and transfer to Erzurum Airport for departure.

WHAT IS INCLUDED
Professional guide - many years of experience in taking people to the summit, Insurance, All transfers, Accommodation in Doğubayazıt, Van and Istanbul if you need that as well, Sightseeing entrance fees, Mules - to carry climbing equipment and your main bag. You will need to carry your own day pack, Tents, Sleeping mattress, Climbing ropes, All meals and soft drinks, Summit certificate.

WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED
Personal climbing equipment, Alcoholic beverages.
Please note that a single person supplement may apply.

PERSONAL EQUIPMENT
You will need the following personal equipment : Cold weather gear - such as good quality hat, gloves, walking or climbing boots, sunglasses, sleeping bag, rucksack and day pack, walking stick, climbing crampons and ice axe.
Please note that we can arrange for you to rent the necessary equipment if you need.

GROUP
Minimum 5 persons with a maximum of 16.
If you book and there are less than 5 people we may contact you to see if you can select a different date for your trip.

MORE INFO by Ararat Trek Kaçkar Expedition

These scripts and photographs are registered under © Copyright 2008, Ararat Trek / Doğubeyazıt - Ağrı - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

ROSETOUR BALLOONING

2007-02-07T11:11:00.000-08:00

Göreme - Nevşehir - Turkey

Take in the beauty of the Cappadocia from a gentle, free-floating hot air balloon offering a birds-eye-view of the land. The following information is here to help answer your questions and to prepare you for your adventure. There is no better way to see the Cappadocia than by a gentle, free-floating balloon flight over the unique rock formations (called as fairy chimneys), valleys and vineyards.

You see the layout of the wine country and you may even pick some of the places you wish to visit later. Our balloons fly daily, weather permitting, throughout the year. Flying takes place in the early morning and evening when the winds are at their calmest. We will encourage you to be involved, right from the start, by helping the crew to prepare the balloon for flight.

Your flight will last approximately one hour or one and a half hours, but you should allow three or four hours for the complete trip. After the flight, on landing, we will toast the flight with a glass of Champagne and 'Flight Certificates' will be presented to each passenger. Our retrieve vehicle and crew will be on hand to help pack away the balloon and return us to the launch site. We all do our best to provide the most memorable flights. We use up-to-date, modern equipment flown by experienced and commercial licensed pilots.

Flight Details and Price
Adult Euro 140.00
Includes : Minimum Flight time of one hour, T-shirt, cap and beer or soft drink, Commemorative Flight Certificate, Transportation from / to Hotel, Full passenger insurance, Reservations

Ballooning has the best safety record of all air sports. Our equipment is built to the highest standards of the Turkish Aerospace Industry, and is tested every year. Your pilot has over 15 years experience in ballooning and holds a Commercial Pilot's Licence issued by the Turkish Aviation Association. Your safety is always our priority!

We will tell you about the meeting time and place. A little before sunrise the pilot will check on the weather with Flight Service. You are invited to participate in the inflation of the balloon, an exciting part of the experience. Please call us the evening before to confirm your flight.

Light surface winds and stable air are ideal for ballooning - that is why we fly early in the morning and in the evening. We obtain our weather forecasts from Nevşehir Weather Centre - a branch of the Met Office. This enables us to forecast with confidence the ideal conditions for flying. It may take several attempts before the correct weather coincides with your booking - please be patient, it is worth the wait! The final decision to fly rests with the pilot, whose prime concern is with your safety.

Our Reservation Staff will be happy to arrange luxury or affordable accommodation packages for you along with tourist information about our world famous landscape. We specialize in personalized service such as weddings or renewal of vows, romance flights for two or for our daily rides, by Mercedes Vans.

MORE INFO

These scripts and photographs are registered under Copyright 2006, Rosetour Ballooning / Göreme - Nevşehir - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

REAL TOUR JEEP SAFARI

2007-02-07T07:34:00.000-08:00

Fethiye - Muğla - Turkey

DAILY JEEP SAFARI TOUR

Excellent value for money. This is not a rally but a chance to experience breathtaking scenery. Drive in Land Rover convoy to discover ancient city of Tlos, one of the oldest medical centres of the world. Relax at the beautiful Yakapark trout farm then on to Saklıkent "the hidden valley" for a delicious open buffet lunch sat on the riverside. Spend time exploring 2nd largest gorge in Europe before enjoying a FANTASTIC wallow in mud baths en route. Visit the ancient Lycian city of Xanthos before finally relaxing at Patara beach, Turkey's longest stretch of sand. Join us as non-driver and be prepared to return a little tired and dusty, after your 180 km round trip.

DAY 1
Transfer from the airport to camping place in Ölüdeniz. Accommodation in tents near beautiful Ölüdeniz bay. Swimming, diving, paragliding, canoeing and other water sports available here in daytime. This is the most photographed beach in Turkey. Incoming party during the night, get informed about the tour and preparations.

DAY 2
Breakfast and shopping at the Fethiye town for drinks. Here adventure starts with Land Rover Jeeps. Visit Tlos ancient city. Lunch at Yakapark which is a place between mountains with a rich green scenery. Yakapark 650 m. high far away from the heat of the plains offers you all traditional foods including fresh trout comes from a live trout farm exists here.

Saklıkent Gorge is the last stop of the day. This canyon is an incomparable natural wonder. 300 m. deep and 18 km. long. Mud bath is an optional activity here. Real attraction is walking as far as 3 km through water and climbing over rocks. Dinner by the river at Saklıkent and accommodation in tree houses or tents.

DAY 3
Breakfast at Saklıkent Gorge and drive through mountain roads. Visit Arsa village and have chance to see real Turkish village life and culture while having apple tea or traditional Turkish tea. Picnic by the river on the way to Gömbe. Visit Uarsu mountain lake and trekking through mountain to see a beautiful waterfall. Dinner in a hotel in Gömbe and accommodation here.

DAY 4
Breakfast at the hotel and drive on the highway to Olympus ancient city which was one of the 6 major cities with a vote of 3 each in the Lycian league. See the Avlan lake and buy some fresh fruits from the villagers on the way to Olympus also called Yanartaş today. At Yanartaş optional visit to Olympus ruins and a few km. away from the ruins there is a spring of methane gas. This natural gas has been burning continuously since the pre-historic times. You have a vine party here during the night. Swimming and sunbathing is your choice in daytime. Accommodation in a hotel in Yanartaş.

DAY 5
Breakfast at the hotel. Move to Demre. Swimming stop at a nice beach in Finike. Visit Myra ruins and tomb of the St. Nicholas, later called famous Santa Claus. Lunch at Demre Harbour. Boat trip to Kekova and many beautiful bays around. At Kekova you are able to see the ruins underwater. Swimming stops and dinner on board. Stay overnight in a nice silent bay near Kekova.

DAY 6
Breakfast on board and Return to the Demre Harbour. Visit little touristic town Kaş for lunch. Swimming stop at unique Kaputaş Beach. Stop at the hotel in Patara and 15 minutes of little walk to Patara Beach. When you reach sand hills you can see the 18 km of famous Patara Beach, one of the longest in the world. Dinner at the hotel in Patara and stay overnight here.

DAY 7
Breakfast at the hotel and enjoy with your time doing canoeing, swimming or sunbathing. Back to the camping place in Ölüdeniz - Fethiye. You are again in most famous beach of Turkey. Water sports are available and you can even parasail with a beautiful view of the lagoon. If you want to fly higher you must go up on the mountain Babadağ here for paragliding. In the evening, optional but recommended Turkish Bath to get relaxed and get rid of all your dirty skins, have sauna and massage makes you feeling completely clean and fresh.

DAY 8
Transfer back to airport.

Prices Excludes: Plane tickets to Dalaman, drinks

Prices includes: food, Hotel, tent or village house, camping dinner, professional guide, transfer, insurance, all tour equipment

Please bring:
Sleeping bag, mat, warm clothes, hiking shoes, hat or bandanna, beach wear, sun cream

MORE INFO

These scripts and photographs are registered under Copyright 2006, Real Tour Jeep Safari / Fethiye - Muğla - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

CAPPADOCIA EZ AIR BALLOONS

2007-02-07T07:23:00.000-08:00

Ürgüp - Nevşehir - Turkey

Ez-Air Balloons was established in 1991 with the aim of organizing top quality & the safest balloon tours and has been doing this with different sizes of balloons since then. We all do our best to provide the most memorable flights. We use up-to-date, modern equipment flown by experienced and Turkish Aviation licensed pilots.

We accommodate the best pilot in Turkey: Hasan Ezel, who has been a hot air balloon pilot since 1984 and had operated advertisement flights in different provinces of Turkey until 1987. At the end of 1987 he started the passenger flights in Cappadocia with Camel Tour. He has also operated some passenger flights in Antalya and Pamukkale in different times. Our chief pilot Hasan, is one of the first 5 pilots of Turkey and is the first Turk pilot flew O310 balloon (whose basket has a capacity of 18 passengers). He has flown more than 3000 hours up to now.

Looking for adventure? Hot air ballooning is one of the most unique and popular attractions in Cappadocia. Experience the magic of a balloon flight and let the world below drift away. Feel the exhilaration of morning-fresh country air.

Cappadocia Ez-Air Balloons offers these wondrous adventures in a traditional Champagne Hot Air Balloon Flight above the beauty of Cappadocia. Imagine floating as gently as a cloud above the glorious vistas of beautiful valleys in Cappadocia!

There is no better way to see the Cappadocia than by a gentle, free-floating balloon flight over the unique rock formations (called as fairy chimneys), valleys and vineyards. We schedule flights twice a day, every day, all year round.

Instead of organizing short and long flights with different prices, we preferred to have a single flight which lasts minimum 1 hour. On the shorts flights, you just have the feeling of flying over Cappadocia but miss a lot on the other hand. Our pilots say that “Duration of ‘minimum one hour’ is an ideal time both to have the feeling of flying and to see ‘a lot’ in this unique landscape”.

Cappadocia Ez Air Balloons, hot air balloon flight costs 160 EURO per adult. If the flying passenger is under the age of 12, we offer 50% discount on this price, so the price would be 80 EURO per child.

Each flight is custom tailored to the weather conditions of the day by our experienced pilots. We schedule our flights just after sunrise seven days a week, year-round. We prefer to fly at daybreak because the morning winds are generally the calmest of the day, the wildlife is most often seen, and besides there is no better way to start the day! During the summer months and in early fall we’re often able to get an imprompt flight in a couples hours before sunset.

Our flights average just over an hour in duration during which time we'll travel anywhere from 5 to 20 miles depending on the wind speed and directions we encounter flying at various altitudes. During the flight the pilot will vary the balloons’ altitude from tree top level, a height that allows one to reach out and commune with nature, to heights of several thousand feet, where one may look out in a visual sweep, and see much of Cappadocia. Whatever the altitude, lighter-than-air-flight offers a truly unique flying experience.

Spring and summer flights are abound with a luscious green carpeting on the hills and in the valleys of Cappadocia. Imagine observing the vibrancy of autumn from aloft? Winter flights offer the uninhibited views of the landscape with snow. Every season offers a special uniqueness and beauty, which makes flying in a balloon a perfect year-round endeavor.

Pre-Flight: An informative pre-flight briefing by your FAA Certified Commercial Pilot. All of our pilots and balloons are fully certified by the Federal Aviation Administration.
Inflation: You can actually participate in the exciting inflation process, or just watch the multi-colored balloon unfold a world of color around you. Before you realize it, the pilot stands the balloon up and you board the hand-crafted wicker basket.

Takeoff: The lift-off and ascent is so gentle many people do not realize they have left the loving arms of mother earth. As you become one with the wind, you lose sensation of motion and perception of heights. You begin to feel the peacefulness and tranquillity of ballooning.

Flight: The flight lasts about an hour, more or less and will be full of wonderful discoveries. The memory lasts for a lifetime. Never again will you think of flying in quite the same way.

Landing: Your pilot will look for a spot near a farm, where there will be thrilled people to help you celebrate your “arrival”. After landing the pilot and crew will pack up the balloon and return to the launch site for the post flight celebration. The tradition of celebrating the flight began in the early 1700’s upon landing, the first balloons were feared as evil spirits, and attacked by the local villagers and farmers. A later balloonist presented a letter from the King and a bottle of champagne as evidence of their Earthly origins, and so continues today, the tradition of champagne as a gesture of friendliness and good times.

Transfer: Our crew will transfer you back to your accommodation.

The name “Cappadocia” dates back to Persian times, when the region was called as “Katpatukya” meaning “Land of beautiful horses”. Since that time Cappadocia has seen the rise and fall of many different civilizations. It is a land of vast plains, rolling hills, rugged mountains and extinct volcanoes. It is a veritable treasury of historical relics from the Chalcolithic era to the Seljuk Turks period. The visitor may seldom travel more then a few miles without encountering some derelict reminders of Cappadocia ‘s colorful past.

In recent times, Cappadocia is best known for its unique landscape of valleys and rock formations, known as fairy chimneys. The formation of the this strange landscape began during the third geological period, when three volcanoes on the edges of this region began erupting frequently. The deposits of volcanoes ash, lava and basalt laid the foundations for today's landscape. Earthquakes and ongoing effects of erosion formed the valleys and fairy chimneys that can be seen today.

As the rock below the top layer of basalt is extremely soft, it can be easily carved. Communities took advantage of this to make their home in the rock pillars and under the ground. Today, examples of homes, churches and whole cities abound in Cappadocia.

“Fairy chimneys" were formed when lava covering the tuff (consolidated volcanic ash) gave way along preexisting cracks of sloping areas and became isolated pinnacles." Fairy chimneys," which can attain a height of up to forty meters, have conical shapes and consist of caps of harder rock resting on pillars of softer rock. A "fairy chimney" exists until the neck of the cone erodes and its protective cap falls off. The subsequent disintegration of the remaining pinnacle continues until it is completely leveled down.

Göreme Open Air Museum
Göreme is one of the oldest towns in Central Anatolia. Primarily an agricultural town, it later became an important center for the early Christians. The valley houses numerous rock hewn churches with frescos.

The churches enclosed by the open air museum contain some very well preserved frescos. The Aristocratic churches are covered with impressive Byzantine art. Refectories, kitchens, storage rooms etc. Can also be visited in the museum.

Üçhisar Castle & Pigeon's Valley

One of the most imposing landmarks of this region is the hilltop fortress at Üçhisar. Out of this natural rock formation a wide variety of rooms and dwellings were carved. Communities lived in this fortress in order to protect themselves from the enemy attack.

Nearby Pigeon’s valley contains numerous pigeon houses. In this valley pigeons were trainees to deliver messages to towns throughout Central Cappadocia and were essential aid to communication. Also people used the droppings of the pigeons as a guano.

Underground Cities

There are more than one hundred underground cities in Cappadocia. Due to the soft nature of the volcanic rock, early civilizations carved entire cities underground and would retreat to this refuge in times of siege. A huge rock was rolled across the entrance to seal it from the outside.

The cities comprised living quarters, cooking areas, places for worship, storage areas and on the first floor below ground were the stables. Water, fresh air and sunlight were also provided.

Ihlara Valley

Ihlara Valley is a canyon, approximately 14 km length and up to 100 meters deep in places. The sheer walls of the canyon make it almost invisible until you are directly upon it.

Ihlara, in ancient times, was the site of the first medical centre. Later, it became a refuge for the early Christians, and has many rock hewn churches. The frescos include scenes from the New Testament, a tableau of the forty martyrs and the portraits of local religious leaders.

Monks Valley & Zelve

Monks Valley (Paşabağ) contains imposing fairy chimneys, many of which have 3 or 4 caps. Hermitages were carved into these chimneys and used by the monks. St Simeon the Stylite, founder of an order of “Pillar Saints” lived in isolation in this valley.

The ancient town of Zelve now an open air museum, was carved into a natural rock amphitheatre. There are three valleys, the first of which houses all of the official buildings. The second and third valleys are for dwellings.

MORE INFO

These scripts and photographs are registered under Copyright 2006, Cappadocia Ez Air Balloons / Ürgüp - Nevşehir - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

NOVARAFT CANYONING

2006-11-03T12:09:00.000-08:00

Antalya - Turkey

Canyoning is one of the most enjoyable outdoor sports. However tiring as it may be, at the end of the day you will have the honor of succeeding and feel that it is worth all your efforts. Though canyoning is a real challenge, it can simply be summarized as passing through a canyon using various techniques.

You will pass the deep and tight river bed sometimes by walking and sometimes by swimming and mostly descending using the ropes and the other technical equipment or jumping from the high rocks into the natural water ponds.

While discovering the spirit of the canyon, you will actually discover your own soul and limits.

Göynük Canyon
This canyon, which is actually a natural beauty, is a relatively easy passage. You can pass the canyon just by walking or swimming and you don't need detailed technical equipment for that. You can pass the average high points with the help of a ladder. It is ideal for the beginners. It is a funny activity involving a lot of water and you don't need to exert much effort.

Ahmetler Canyon
Here is the address for the real adventure seekers. Ahmetler canyon, which is in the province of Manavgat, is a passage requiring high performance. Our guides will inform you about the usage of the equipment. After a walk of one hour we arrive to the entrance of the canyon. The speed of the steep passage, starting with a simple walk, increases after a short try and after this step, walking won't be enough anymore.

You sometimes dive into the water through the rock cracks and sometimes jump to the natural pools from 14 meters above the ground. At the exit, you are all heroes having had a victory and you do deserve a barbecue at the lakeside.

MORE INFO

These scripts and photographs are registered under Copyright 2006, Novaraft Rafting / Antalya - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

WILD TURKEY ADVENTURES PARAGLIDING

2006-10-26T13:48:00.000-07:00

Fethiye - Muğla - Turkey

Wild Turkey Adventures specialize on budget adventure tours in Turkey. The specific area of interest is paragliding, hang gliding and canyoning tours. Wild Turkey Adventures emphasize on interaction between tour participants and locals. Come and be one of those privileged people who has experienced the real Turkish life style instead of traveling in the country as one of those millions of tourists. Come and be part of the picture, sit down together with the locals in small village cafes to enjoy the original Turkish coffee and play card games or back gammon. The Turks are extremely hospitable against visitors, especially if they come from the sky!
Turkey is well known as a free flying country due to lack of restrictions on paragliding and hangliding. There is no official requirement for membership, insurance, site permission, etc., but entrance fees apply to some popular sites such as Ölüdeniz. Just grab your glider and off to go, there is no one in between you and the sky. Come and enjoy the ultimate freedom in this marvelous place.

Join us for one of our tours and enjoy the privilege of flying at some of the world's most scenic sites. You won't be disappointed, no one has ever done. Spoil yourself with a SIV course (advance manoeuvre clinic) at Ölüdeniz.

Since paragliding is not wide spread (yet) in Turkey, access to most take offs is the biggest challenge for visiting pilots. Wild Turkey Adventures fills this gap and provides the best possible means of getting you to various take offs.

2006 TURKEY PARAGLIDING ADVENTURE

Year 2006 WTA paraglider tour is finalized. This time we will be covering the south western corner of Turkey in 2 weeks. A great combination of inland and coastal flying. These are the best sites the country can offer. World famous Ölüdeniz, amazing Pamukkale (white castles) and other sites with unforgettable scenery.

Due to popular demand, there will be 2 vehicles ferrying us from site to site and retrieving us when we go for XC flight.

There are still a couple of seats available to pilots who wants to join us these final days. If you are looking for an unforgettable paragliding experience, you will need to hurry up before all seats are gone.

Date 14 - 26 August
Flying Sites Gürle-Bursa, Bozdağ-Ödemiş, Çökelez-Pamukkale (white castles), Kaş and Babadağ-Ölüdeniz.
Accommodation Places Yalova, Ödemiş, Pamukkale, Kaş, Ölüdeniz,

Places of Interest The best ones are:
Ölüdeniz, Butterfly Valley, White Castle of Pamukkale, Kaş.
Distance to Travel 3000-4000 km.

GURLE MOUNTAIN
General: The site is located near to Orhangazi. The launch can be easily seen from the highway on the left while travelling from Yalova to Bursa. The site was opened in 2003 and since then it became a hit, especially for the pilots from Istanbul and Bursa. The view is magnificent, the lake of Iznik on one side, Sea of Marmara on the other side and lush green oak tree forest below and behind. Because of close proximity to the sea, thermals are not strong and cloud base is just above the peak. But, it is very easy to cover some distance following the ridge. So far, the best distance is 27km.
Take Off: Intermediate but suitable for novices under strict control. A cleared area on top of the mountain. Ground needs a bit more cleaning as roots are catching lines. Access to the take off via Seloz village but it is not easy to find. Better contact to local pilots for details.
Landing: A big paddock parallel to the access road to Gurle Village. There is a power lines parallel to the paddock.
Height: .1000 above valley level.
Transportation: Bring your own or talk to villagers. They may provide some transportation at a cost. Two wheel drive all the way up.
Accommodation: Some in Orhangazi but Bursa is only 45 minutes drive away and there are plenty of accommodation in Bursa.
Other Activities: The city of Bursa was one of the capital cities of Ottoman Empire and a lot of historical place to visit in the city. It is also a big city. Yalova or Gemlik are coastal towns and some accommodation is available..

ABANT
General: One of the heavily used sites in Turkey. Its close proximity to Istanbul and scenic natural park surrounding the area makes the place popular. In addition to that launches facing different direction allows take off almost all directions. It has got a good potential for XC flights and also novice friendly.
Take Off: Very easy. Big, rounded grassy hill
Landing: Very easy. A big flat land around the lake.
Height: A couple hundred meters above ground level if you land by the lake. The south side is far higher.
Transportation: Bring your own vehicle.
Accommodation: Plenty but might be a bit dear.
Other Activities: Plenty of nature walk especially around the lake. The place is very relaxing.

ALİ DAĞ - KAYSERİ
General: This is a magnificent site with excellent XC potential. A solitary mountain in the middle of an endless flat land. Its close proximity to Cappadocia (1.5 hours driving) is an another bonus for the site.
Take Off: Very easy. Big, rounded grassy hill. Take off to any direction.
Landing: Very easy. Plenty of empty fields around the city.
Height (AGL): 600 - 900 meters
Transportation: Bring your own vehicle. Two wheel drive but dirt road to the site.
Accommodation: Plenty in the town. Cappadocia is a better place for accommodation.
Other Activities: Cappadocia is only 1.5 hours drive away and there are sufficient interesting places to occupy non fliers for 3 days.

ARSLANKÖY - MERSİN
General: This is a reasonably new site. Take off at 1960 mt and valley level is at 1350 mt. Big massive thermals and great XC potential. Villagers are most welcoming to new visitors.
Take Off: Big, rounded hill. But thistles are hassle.
Landing: Novice. Plenty landing down at the valley. Landing at the official area may be a bit tricky.
Height (AGL): 600 meters
Transportation: 4wd to launch. Bring your own vehicle or nicely ask villages to give you lift at the back of their tractor.
Accommodation: Plenty in Mersin. Mersin is only 55 km away (1 hrs drive, very winding) from the site
Other Activities: Some around Mersin

ALANYA
The site is currently closed. It is not worth the trip anyway.

TÜNEKTEPE - ANTALYA
General: This is one of the most scenic sites you can ever come cross. The rotating restaurant/cafe at the launch itself is worth the trip. A local paragliding school runs the site and there is a charge for each flight.
Take Off: Good for advance pilots only. The launch ends up sharply at the edge of a 7/8 meters high retaining wall built on an almost vertical cliff, so once committed no return. To make things worst, the retaining wall can cause turbulence.
Landing: Not any better than the launch. The beach straight under the launch is no go zone. The official landing zone is a big beach a couple kilometers away not visible from the launch. If you end up landing at the wrong beach, further landing fees apply. Beware.
Height (ASL and AGL): 350 meters.
Transportation: Bring your own vehicle or contact to the local club. Autobahn class bitumen all the way up.
Accommodation: Plenty in Antalya which is only 1/2 hrs drive away. Or the luxury hotel on top of the mountain.
Other Activities: Plenty in Antalya and in the area. Feel comfortable to bring along your family members.

KAŞ
General: An another coastal site. Access is easy and scenery is excellent. It is a good alternative to Oludeniz and only 1.5 hours drive away from it. To me, it is a better site and offer better XC potential.
Take Off: Easy. Novice.
Landing: Easy if you land at the new harbor. If you try the old harbor, it is very tricky and risky. The landing approach is over the yachts but sometime have to dodge the masts if they are too long. So for advance pilots only. But is is well worth.
Height (ASL): 600 meters.
Transportation: Shuttle bus costs you about $3 US dollars.
Accommodation: Plenty in the town. It is cheap too.
Other Activities: Crystal clear water for swimming, diving. Ancient town so plenty of attraction therefore suitable to non fliers.
Links: None.

SİNEKÇİ BEL - ANTALYA
General: An inland site only 1.5 hrs drive away from Kas. It is an excellent XC site, a 70 km long ridge reaches almost to the coast. It has been flown all the way to the coast. It is difficult to find the site, better contact to the local tandem operators in Kas for direction and possibly organising transport. Very easy to get lost on the way or after flight.
Take Off: Intermediate/Advance. Take off from in front of the fire observation towers or from the bend on the road. There is a better take off a couple of hundred meters away from the buildings.
Landing: Well this is a difficult one to answer. It depends on which paddock is chosen. There is no nominated landing zone and it is most likely you will end up landing somewhere in the valley following the ridge. There are a variety of small fields in various size and shapes but generally smaller then we like. Landing in crops is not unlikely. If you end up landing in crop, offering a small compensation is appreciated.
Height (ASL): 2000 meters.
Transportation: Bring your own car. Two wheel drive vehicles can do it but need a bit ground clearance and guts.
Accommodation: Plenty in the Kas.
Other Activities: Same as Kas

ÖLÜDENİZ - FETHİYE
General: No need to describe, you all heard about it.
Take Off: There are too many take offs. The main one (1700 mt) is easy, others may be difficult.
Landing: Easy. On the beach.
Height (ASL): 1700-1900 meters. Various launches.
Transportation: Shuttle bus costs you about $3 US dollars plus site fee of similar amount.
Accommodation: Plenty in the town.
Other Activities: Crystal clear water for swimming, diving. A good place for relaxing. Suitable to non fliers.

GÖKOVA - MUĞLA
General: Used to be a popular site but loosing popularity. The biggest problem with the site is the strong valley breeze most of the time. Otherwise another excellent site with a potential of long ridge soaring up to 30 km. Access is very easy.
Take Off: Not bad.
Landing: Plenty of landing options but be careful about strong valley breeze. Check the valley breeze before take off.
Height (ASL): 650 meters.
Transportation: Bring your own. But access is very easy.
Accommodation: Plenty in the village of Akyaka.
Other Activities: Swimming, bush walking. A good place for relaxing. Marmaris is not too far away for night life.

ÖREN - MUĞLA
General: A good ridge soaring site. A local hotel owner used to provide transportation to pilots who stayed at his place.
Take Off: Easy.
Landing: Easy.
Height (ASL): 600 meters.
Transportation: Bring your own. But hotel owner may provide. Access is a bit challenging but two wheel drive access.
Accommodation: Plenty in the village.
Other Activities: Swimming. A good place for relaxing.

PAMUKKALE - DENİZLİ
General: There are a couple launches in the area; Dinamit Tepe (Dynamite hill), Gerald Hill and Cokelez Dagi (Cokelez Mountain).
Dinamit Tepe is a little hill behind the white castles. It is good for ridge soaring. Local school use the site for training. But to me it is not really suitable for learning paragliding. Generally light cross wind makes take offs challenging.

Gerald Hill is not too far away from the Dinamit Tepe. Facing slightly different direction.

Cokelez Mountain is a good XC site which is only half an hour drive away from Pamukkale village. We have done many XC flights from this site. Flying over the white castles can also be possible if you know where to go!!
The local club is very active and very helpful.
HONAZ MOUNTAIN IS CLOSED!
Take Off: Dinamit Tepe - OK; Gerald Hill: OK; Cokelez Mountain: Very easy. 180 degree.
Landing: Dinamit Tepe: easy. Cokelez Mountain: Very easy..
Height (ASL): ?? meters.
Transportation: Bring your own or contact to the local club. They may be able to help. Access is very easy though.
Accommodation: Plenty in Pamukkale Village and Karahayit.
Other Activities: History and nature. Suitable to non fliers with sufficient interesting places to keep them busy for at least two days.

KAKLIK - DENİZLİ
General: Another nice site in the area. Only 45 minutes drive away from Pamukkale. Locals use the site mostly for ridge soaring but to me it has got a good XC potential.
Take Off: Easy.
Landing: Very easy.
Height (ASL): 200 meters.
Transportation: Bring your own or contact to the local club. They may be able to help. Access is very easy.
Accommodation: Plenty in Pamukkale Village and Karahayit.
Other Activities: History and nature. Visit the Kaklik Cave.

BOZDAĞ - ÖDEMİŞ
General: My favorite XC site. Launch is just over a highway and a massive valley surrounded by big mountains. Just perfect.
Take Off: Very easy
Landing: Easy. Try not to fly into the valley straight in front of the launch. Limited landing option not good for novices.
Height (ASL): 600 meters.
Transportation: Bring your own or use public transportation.
Accommodation: Well some in the area.
Other Activities: Himm. Not much. You may visit the township of Golcuk for an evening beer by the lake.

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These scripts and photographs are registered under © Copyright 2006, Wild Turkey Adventures Paragliding / Fethiye - Muğla - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

SKY PARAGLIDING

2006-10-10T14:53:00.000-07:00

Kaş - Antalya - Turkey

For tens of thousands of years, we humans have looked to the sky and have envied the spontaneous flight of hawks and eagles soaring on outstretched wings. We have longed for the freedom of the air and have dreamed of unlimited vistas and quiet retreats in the clouds. But such longing and dreams were frustrated until only the last century or so.

Human flight is now an everyday reality. With the recent development of paragliding, free flight is now so accessible, easy and affordable, that few with the desire to touch the sky are denied. Paragliding is the latest variation of wings for recreational flying and opens doors to many adventures. Our modern wings allow us to realize the flying dream safely and easily.

We at Sky Paragliding wish to become your partner in the sky. No matter what your motivation, we hope that you will embark on a skyward journey with us. The journey is fun, fascinating and rewarding. We invite you to take part in the quest to realize the oldest dream. You will change your outlook, your perspective and your sense of the possible. You will change yourself…

Throughout the history the mankind was in dream of flying in the word of birds. We are the grandchilds of our gerat ancestors, Daedalus-Ikrus, Hazerfan, Leonardo da Vinci, Abbas ibn-Firmas, Jacques Garnerin, George Cayley, Otto Liliental and much more who inspired us in flying with their love of flying that they reflects by their flying stories, flying passion, flying pioneers through their works. Now with the influence of this We the Sky Paragliding Team gathered to make this dream comes true.

Since 1990 apart from the national and international competitions that we have brought to a successful conclusion, we also succeeded in becoming a highly reputable and sought after team in all the festivals and aerobatic shows we have participated in so far. The employees of our professional Sky team is applying the maximum security standards and frequent the strong discipline. Aware of the many responsibilities Sky Paragliding has chosen the companies of obtaining their equipment which have a reputation for producing the world’s most reliable and finest equipments. All the equipment is periodically renewed regarding the validity that the manufactures suggests.

Tandem Paragliding
Tandem paragliding is the easiest and safest way to experience the marvel of free flight - that is - flying without a motor. Tandem flights involve flying as a passenger with a pilot in a shared adventure. The passenger and the pilot have separate harnesses that are attached by spreader bars to the paraglider wing. The purpose of the tandem flight is to fly with a pilot so that you can simply relax and feel the magical pleasure of soaring in the wind or catching thermals like the birds do…

The take off
We provide a short pre-departure briefing to ensure a safe and easy take-off from the Asaz Mountain 1000 m. launch site. As you put your flying suit and helmet on, you will be fitted and fastened securely into your harness by the pilot. When conditions are optimal, the pilot will inflate the glider overhead and you will take a few steps running forward until you are both floating above the ground. Just run…don't jump…and don't stop. At first, you feel a slight pull backwards, but then in a moment, you will feel an upward lift. A few steps later your feet will start to leave ground - before you know it, you are airborne and flying…

The flight
Once airborne, the passenger sits back and enjoys the spectacular scenery. Any anxiety is soon forgotten by the incredible experience of flying, with its sense of freedom and birds-eye view of your surroundings. While your pilot is steering the glider to gain altitude over the mountain summit, you will start to see the dazzling blue and turquoise colours of the Mediterranean. After you gain sufficient altitude, your pilot will head the glider towards the sea. Your first view will be the Greek Island of Meis surrounded by various smaller islands. Not only will you have a marvelous view of the island, but you will also see the many diving sites that make Kaş renowned for the beauty of its underwater scenery and diversity of marine life.

As you slowly glide above the sea and smell the salty air, you may see the sunken city Kekova and Liman Ağzı to the East. To the west, you will see the amazing beach and coastline of Patara where the beautiful Carettas (loggerhead sea turtles) lay their eggs in an 18 km stretch of sandy coastline near Kalkan. Then, from your birds-eye perspective, you will take in the take in the incredible sight of Kaş’ ancient 3000 year-old ancient Hellenistic amphitheatre, located on the town’s peninsula and the only one in Anatolia overlooking the deep blue of the Mediterranean. Just before approaching the landing zone in Kaş Harbour, you will see the ancient "Sleeping Giant", one of the many Lycian rock tombs and historic sights in the town.

Starting In Kaş
Although Kaş’ history goes back to the 6th century B.C., the history of paragliding in Kaş has only recently been written. Arif Buhara and Arslan Öztürkmen start the paragliding business as pioneers in Kaş under the name of Skysports.

The Governor and the Mayor of the province, along with a few other notables, became interested in setting up a paragliding operation as a tourist attraction in Kaş. In October of 2000, they contacted Arif and Arslan, who jumped at the chance to start a business there. Arslan recalls, Like an arrow just out of the bow… fast and to the target. It was so important for they to start flying in Kaş, because of their big love of flying. And it was nice to have one more flying site on Mediterranean coastline. I am glad that we worked for it. Correct people at the correct time.” The team scouted for possible launches and Landing Zone’s and began taking test flights.

They knew that the site had great potential, but It is needed a road to get to launch. The local government not only agreed to build the road, but they also cleared the launch area. Consequently, Arslan and Arif recruited a team of skilled and experienced tandem pilots and, during their first season in the summer of 2001, they made almost 1,000 commercial tandem flights. Besides these, by inviting Turkish and foreign paragliding schools, clubs and several solo pilots from all over the world over 1500 flights were done in the first season.

Flying in Kaş
With its 40 minutes drive and 35 km distance the altitude is 1000m at the takeoff which has 180° of cleared and graded terrain on Asaz Mountain, facing south to the sea. From launch, you have a magnificent view of the Greek island of Meis (Kastellorizon). The tandem pilots land on the jetty in town, making their approach over the tall masts of the moored yachts and dropping onto a landing mat, just short of the concrete seawall. The solo pilot’s landing zone is a long concrete quay, just past the main part of town.

The summers in Kaş are hot and dry and pilots enjoy consistent flying conditions between May and October. With approximately 300 days of sunshine each year, there is the potential for great soaring and XC flights. The began taking solo pilots to Kaş for XC trips in 1994. Over the years, pilots launching from Kaş have reached altitudes of 2,400 meters and have had flights that have lasted up to seven hours and 155 kilometers in distance. Keep in mind that we have only just begun to develop this site.

There are more XC routes still waiting to be discovered from Kaş and there are many other great flying sites to discover elsewhere in Turkey. We Türks are known for our generosity and hospitality and the locals usually put out the welcome mat for visiting pilots. There is a saying in Turkey, "A guest is God’s gift." If you are looking for fun flying, and you want to avoid the crowds, high prices and unreliable weather in Europe, check out Sky Paragliding in Kaş. But beware; your first trip probably won't be your last…

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These scripts and photographs are registered under © Copyright 2006, Sky Paragliding / Kaş - Antalya - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

NOVARAFT TEAM BUILDING

2006-10-10T14:39:00.000-07:00

Antalya - Turkey

This program, which is especially ideal for the companies, is based on developing the sense of competition, acting together and creating the team spirit besides the mere function of fun.

Some companies are in a fierce competition with each other in today's business life. However, do we know which companies will prevail? Of course, those that invest in the human factor. It is very clear that the ones developing their skills and the sense of being harmonious with each other, shortly, the ones succeeding in becoming a team, survive.

This program is composed of team games and high rope courses. There is a series of cramps made up of various materials. The goal is to strengthen the skills and abilities of problem solving, decision making, responsibility sharing, leadership, motivation, inner group communication, group management and reliance. Thus, there comes an end-focused group who trust each other. The adaptation process of the newly participated ones gains an impetus.

Here are some activities and games taking place within this program:

High Rope Course
Low Rope Course
Mine Field
Bow Shooting
Flying Fox
Burma Steps
Safety Fall
Rope Descent
Wall Climbing
Spider Web
Cable Walk
Swinging Bridge

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These scripts and photographs are registered under © Copyright 2006, Novaraft Rafting / Antalya - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

GOÇEK YACHT CLUB

2006-09-30T06:33:00.000-07:00

Göçek - Muğla - Turkey

RACE
November '06
4th of Autumn regatta will be held on 6-10 November 2006.

Göçek Yacht Club was founded in 1999 in Göçek town under the name of Göçek Yacht Specialization Club Association. It still operates as a part of Turkish Sailing Federation. The club organizes regattas and sailing courses in order to train the future yachtsmen and to increase the interest in sailing. As a consequence of the support from Port Göçek Marina, the club has now got a building and a clubhouse.

Our club has been supporting the young sailors by participating in national and regional races in previous years, and has also carried out the annual Autumn Regatta successfully. Göçek Yacht Club has started its first courses with the support of Pınar Süt Company with 6 optimists in 2001. Since the courses started about 200 kids have had chance to meet with the sports of sailing during the trainings in summer.

Sailing School
Göçek Yacht Club organizes Optimist Sailing Courses for the children of the region for the main purposes of training the children that will be future’s local sailors, and to provide a progress in yachting and to make it wide-spread.

We need financial sources to meet the requests and to give a better service in future. The fees obtained from the courses and the regattas are again transferred to the Optimist part of our club.

2005 summer Optimist courses of Göçek Yacht Club has ended. 24 trainee at the ages of 6-15 participated in our course which was organized to be 4 seasons. In the first 2 days of the course, the trainees were taught the basic parts of yachting and sailing by our club’s trainer Ali Osman Ayan. The trainees learned to sail with Optimist dinghies during their 10 days’ courses. The trainees who attended the following courses learned more about sailing with Optimist dinghies.

At the end of the course, with the participation of the parents and the contributions of our club, small celebrations have been made and certificates our club had prepared were given to the trainees for their participation. Our club decided to give licenses to 5 trainees. Below mentioned trainees of our club will continue their training during the year in our licensed sailing team. In the future, they will represent our club in regattas with other licensed yachtsmen of our club.

We are thankful to all of our members, Port Göçek Marina, Göçek Municipality for their contributions; to the parents for their gifts for the trainees during the courses and to all of the sea and sailing friends.

2006 Optimist Courses Calendar
I. Period 19-23 / 26-30 June - 10:30-12:30 / 15:00-17:30
II. Period 10-14 / 17-21 July - 10:30-12:30 / 15:00-17:30
III. Period 24-31 July / 01-02 August - 10:30-12:30 / 15:00-17:30
IV. Period 22-31 August - 10:30-12:30 / 15:00-17:30

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These scripts and photographs are registered under © Copyright 2006, Göçek Yacht Club / Göçek - Muğla - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

OZSAFAK ALADAGLAR TREKKING

2006-09-30T06:20:00.000-07:00

Çukurbağ - Niğde - Turkey

ROUTES

TREK - 1
This trekking is for 4 days.
DAY 1: From Çukurbağ village - pension (1650 m.)
We start trekking and after 7 hours arrive at Tekepınarı (2500m.) We camp there.
DAY 2: From Tekepınarı, we leave for the large Dipsiz Lake (3100m.) We trek for 2-3 hours on the hills around the lake. Then we go to Sokulupınar valley (2000 m .) We camp there.
DAY 3: Today we go to the Seven lakes, all very different (3200m.) We camp there, in a very nice environment.
DAY 4: We go to Engin tepe (3700m.) Then we return to the pension after 7-8 hours trekking.

TREK - 2
This trek is min 5 days max 6 days.
DAY 1: From Çukurbağ village and the pension, we go to the Seven lakes, which we reach after 8-9 hours of trekking. We camp.
DAY 2: Today, we go to Engin tepe (3700 m.) and meet the nomads. In the area, we can see mountaingoats and some lakes. We return to the Seven lakes and the camp place.
DAY 3: We trek to Hacer Valley and camp at Soğukpınar (1800m.) where there is a cold Spring. During the 5-hours trek, we pass through impressive places and meet nomads called yörük. We will be invited to their tents as their guests.
DAY 4: We trek for about 5 hours to Barazama (1000m.) and the waterfalls at 950m. On the way, we visit some villages. Then, we reach our picnic site by a river. There are some pools perfect for a refreshing swim. In the afternoon we reach the waterfalls and overnight at the camp.
Day 5: From the waterfalls we go to Barazama, then to Kayseri by minibus. From Kayseri we continue to Niğde, and we reach Çukurbağ village by bus. This trek can also be organized for 6 days.

TREK - 3
DAY 1: From Çukurbağ village and the pension we go to Emli valley (1800m.) After 3 hours trekking, we arrive at the Alaca camping (2700m.)
DAY 2: From Alaca we go to Tülü (1800m.) And from there to Sokulupınar where we camp.
DAY 3: From Sokulupınar we go to Arpalık (2400m). Then on to Cimbar Boğazı and from there back to Demirkazık village, and to Çukurbağ village and our pension.

OZSAFAK PENSION

There are 10 rooms with 2/3 person for each. There is hot and cold water, showers and a washing machine.
Camping places for tents are avaliable also.
In the pension you can find breakfast, lunch and dinner. You can find here whatever you need.

The Aladağ Mountains are easily accessible from here for trekking, climbing, birdwatching and botanic. You can take a good haliday here. It's possible to make climbing, trekking, ski birdwatching, parachute jumping and cycling in Toros Mountains (Aladağ's) And also there are a lot of kinds of bird and flowers.

Our pension is at the junction of the road to Çukurbağ of the road from Niğde to Çamardı. Buses are avaliable 25 times from Niğde each day. There are also taxis.

I and my family are mountain guides and can arrange donkeys / mules and trekking equipments. English, German and French are spoken. I am the guide here, who interested in these things can contact with me. I know Aladağ's very well. If you contact with me I can help you what you need.

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These scripts and photographs are registered under © Copyright 2006, Özşafak Pension / Çukurbağ - Niğde - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

MARMARIS INTERNATIONAL YACHT CLUB

2006-09-23T12:01:00.000-07:00

Marmaris - Muğla - Turkey

The Marmaris International Yacht Club was founded in 1992 by the yachtsmen and women of Marmaris. Prior to the formation of the club, these people would hold various amateur races between themselves but once the club was set up, they saw an opportunity to create an official get-together and organised the first Marmaris Race Week.

The MIYC has about 80 members today and each year during the Marmaris Race Week, hosts around 120 yachts and 1000 racers from all over the world.

The MIYC has also been the main body responsible for the organisation of the Marmaris Yacht Festival for many years. This is an international event which gives the local crewed charter yachts and local agencies to promote themselves and the Turkish coast as a charter destination.

MIYC has started the Yacht and Yacht Equipments Fair with a couple of stands on the first years of the festival. Now it has expanded its activity range with the yacht and yacht equipments fair by organising it as a separate event since 2001. The fair is organised by the time of festival each year and it provides an extra potential to the region’s existing maritime business.

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These scripts and photographs are registered under © Copyright 2006, Marmaris International Yacht Club / Marmaris - Muğla - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

OZKAN SAHIN RAFTING

2006-09-23T11:57:00.000-07:00

Yusufeli - Artvin - Turkey

The Çoruh rises at around 3000 m. and flows for about 650 km. through the Kaçkar Mountains to the Black sea. The first third of this journey is fairly flat water; of no interest to the white water paddler. But what does concern the paddler is that the water is used for irrigation; the water flows out over level fields and soaks up the sun warms it up and some flows back into the river - That's right warm white water!

Between the towns of Bayburt and Ispir the river swings through 180 degrees and enters a gorge. This is where we and the fun starts and the next 160 kms provide some of the best white water available. The longest flat stretch is 8 km, the rapids vary from class five classics to excellent playground grade threes. Also almost without exception the river gets progressively harder - so you have time to "acclimatise" to the river.

The Çoruh offers a unique mix of white water, scenery, culture and local distractions that you could easily spend a month in the area and not get bored. This gives you time to play the rapids and explore the side valleys as well as paddle some of the tributaries and scare yourself as much as you want on the steep creeks that flow straight into the Black Sea.

If you are a grade V paddler you will love this river. If you are a good Grade V paddler go early; not only is the Çoruh high and powerful but all the side creeks are running as well. If you feel happy on Grade IV then by the end of June the river will have dropped and the power subsided and the fun starts. Grade III paddlers will find that by the end of July the river is manageable though still testing at times.

One of the biggest draws to the Coruh is the climate; not only is the sun shinning but the water is warm, almost tepid! This makes a huge difference to enjoyment and confidence; you stop playing a hole from exhaustion, not hypothermia! However, if you feel you may not make the grade do not worry because :

1) The river starts easy and gets progressively harder. This gives you a chance to warm up and get those rusty reactions up to speed.
2) The water is warm so your head does not freeze when you capsize. No ice cream head!!!
3) There is an endless variety of rapids to play on for all standards of paddlers.

THE ÇORUH (Turkey) Section : Bayburt to Artvin
Difficulty : V+ in high water
Season : May to August.
Length : Bayburt - Ispir 100 km class II
Ispir - Yusufeli 95 km class V
Yusufeli - Artvin 70 km class V

MORE INFO

These scripts and photographs are registered under © Copyright 2006, Özkan Şahin / Yusufeli - Artvin - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

TRANSNATURE KAÇKAR MOUNTAINS TREKKING

2006-09-22T11:52:00.000-07:00

Antalya - Turkey

KAÇKAR MOUNTAINS (3932 m.)

These mountains ascending between the Eastern Black Sea Coast and Çoruh river in the South stretch out on a SW/South West - NE/North East line. Together with Tatos, Hunut, Davut, Güngörmez and Altıparmak Mountains, they constitute the principal high points of the Eastern Black Sea mountains. Stretching out on SW / NE direction and extending on 80-100 km length, they cover a surface area 40-50 km width.

Arrayed from the West to the East, mountains such as Varşamba with 3710 m, Kaçkar with 3932 m. and Altıparmak with 3492 m. constitute the highest parts of the region.
The summit of these mountains known as Rize / Kaçkar Mountains is Kaçkar - Kavron Mountain with its peak at 3932 m.

KAÇKAR (KACHKAR) TREKKING PROGRAMME EASTREN BLACKSEA
Day 1 : Arrival to Erzurum (domestic lines from Istanbul), transfer to Yusufeli City and than Yaylalar Village, Olgunlar Camp Base (2.200 m) by minibus, set up camp for overnight.
Day 2 : After breakfast trek to Dilberdüzü Plateau (3.000 m) Lunch and rest. Afternoon walk to Lake Deniz (3.250 m) and turn back to camp at Dilberdüzü.
Day 3 : After breakfast trek to Mt. Kaçkar Peak (3.932 m) , to sign the peak notebook, to take photo and turn back to camp at Dilberdüzü.
Day 4 : After breakfast trek to Dobe Düzü Plateau (2.650 m). Lunch and rest, Set up camp for overnight and short walks around the campsite.
Day 5 : After breakfast trek to Lake Karadeniz (3.000 m), through the Caymakcur Pass (3.205 m). Camp for overnight.
Day 6 : After breakfast trek through Mezovit Plateau and north glacier of Mt. Kaçkar Peak to Yukarı Kavran Village. Arrival to Ayder Town, Set up camp or stay in a pension&otel, have a bath Ayder thermal spring.
Day 7 : Transfer to Trabzon by minibus, accommodation at hotel,
Day 8 : Transfer to Trabzon Airport

Guide : Experienced two guides, speak foreign languages,
Insurance : From Trans Nature Travel Agency,
Equipment : Tents and mattress are suitable for mountaineering, Sleeping bag is extra.
Food : Breakfast, sandwich and dinner for mountain conditions.
Accommodation : Tent (for 2 person), pension&otel

MORE INFO

These scripts and photographs are registered under © Copyright 2006, Transnature / Antalya - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

SUSPORLARI DIVING

2006-09-22T11:36:00.000-07:00

Antalya - Turkey

Scuba Diving Education Center "Kiriş Resort"

The family friendly hotel is a great location for our diving center. We carry on this well equipped base since 1995. The experienced crew provides fun and safety at the dives. The diving center was rebuilt in 2005 including an additional amphi theater for the theory education. By having a very good cooperation with the watersports department we are now able to use the big peer to enter the boat (only 100m away).

The diving station offers everyday 3 excursions. We dive at 10:00, 14:00 and 16:00 with the boat. Beachdives to the underwater playground are possible all day. Some of our "most wanted" are the night dives or the "Early Morning Dive" to the wreck PARIS.

Scuba Diving 2006
The CMAS Scuba Diving Educational Facility "Dive Turkey" fulfills all your underwater expectations. Here you can get in touch with the marine world for the first time or extend your level of education.
• CMAS Children Diving (8-12 years)
• Basic Certificate
• Nightdiving
• Orientationdiving
• Wreckdiving "Expedition Paris"
• Underwater digital photo course
• Accepting all international diving certificates (PADI, Naui, SSI, etc.)
• Crossover educations
• CMAS Bronze *
• CMAS Silver **
• CMAS Gold***
• Diving instructor education

DIVING WORLD
Several offers for every age. If you would like to try scuba diving or if you would like to glide through the warm waters of the Mediterranean or if plan to extend your education - we have special programs for all. IWM "Dive Turkey" is an official CMAS first class diving center and a MARES testcenter

Real underwater professionals will guide you through the education seminars using best equipments. A professional maintenance room offers excellent service also for your own equipment. So come get wet.

SUBJECT TO CHARGE
• Diving center "Dive Turkey"
• Special offers: shipwrecks, caves and our underwater playground
• Senior aquanauts; it is never too late to learn scuba diving. Make a dream come true with our special program "Senior Diving".

Magic Life the Club World
"ONE Divers" Scuba Diving Education Center

We await you in the biggest IWM base of all! The Hotel offers a very extensive concept and guarantees for an unforgettable holiday. The diving center is one of the most modern stations all over Turkey. The programs are very large and the service is great.

Three times a day we dive from our own diving boat "Özge". The distances to the near reefs are only 5-20 minutes in average. The underwater environmental park "3 Islands" is located 45-50 minutes away. Each dive is accompanied by experienced instructors! The group size is limited to 4-6 persons.

The weekly program makes a diving holiday without stress possible and gives you the opportunity to see all underwater attractions of the Turkish Riviera.

DIVING WORLD
Several offers for every age. If you would like to try scuba diving or if you would like to glide through the warm waters of the Mediterranean or if plan to extend your education - we have special programs for all. IWM "Dive Turkey" is an official CMAS first class diving center and a MARES testcenter

Real underwater professionals will guide you through the education seminars using best equipments. A professional maintenance room offers excellent service also for your own equipment. So come get wet.

SUBJECT TO CHARGE
• Diving center "Dive Turkey"
• Special offers: shipwrecks, caves and our underwater playground
• Senior aquanauts; it is never too late to learn scuba diving. Make a dream come true with our special program "Senior Diving".

"Dive Turkey" Scuba Diving Education Center Alatimya Village
An exceptional diving center with a sense for families!

Thomas & Neco Zimmerli are awaiting you in their CMAS Diving School.

With experience of years the two professionals are creating a friendly atmosphere. One of the most beautiful diving centers of the Kemer region is located only 25m from the beach, 7m from the pool and 7 minutes by boat from the well known ship wreck PARIS .

The service is great, we dive 2-3 times a day with our own diving boat at the best dive spots all around. We look after beginners and professionals in the same way.

Alatimya Village Kemer

CMAS BASIC
3x 1 hour theory (incl. education materials)
2x Pool (inkl. CMAS safety exercise)
2x 30-45 min. beachdive (1x fun,1x with all CMAS safety exercises)
1x boatdive (30-45 min., max.12-15 m depth)
Attention: This rate is valid for reservations made 14 days in advance, normal rate € 229.-

CMAS BRONZE
3x 1 hour theory (with education materials)
2x pool (incl. CMAS safety exercises)
3x 30-45 min. beach diving (for all CMAS safety exercises)
3x Bootsausfahrten (boat dive 30-45 min., max.12-15m depth)
international CMAS card after successful examination
After graduation for the CMAS-Bronze diver you are able to dive without diving instructor

HOLIDAY DIVER
1x 1 hour theory
1x poolunit
1x 30-40 min. beach dive
1x holiday diver certificate

CMAS JUNIOR DIVER (8–12 years)
2x theory
1x game hour
2x pool unit
1x diving at the underwater playground
1x theory examination

HOT SPOT CARD for the professionals
6x diving incl. equipment, extras and experienced guide € 199.-
6x diving with own equipment, extras and experienced guide € 150.-

FREE OF CHARGE
Free Scuba Diving lesson, from 8 years on, 2x per week in the pool

MORE INFO

Cave Video
Fish Video
Paris Video

These scripts and photographs are registered under © Copyright 2006, Su Sporları / Antalya - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

TRANSNATURE AGRI MOUNTAIN CLIMBING

2006-09-22T07:04:00.000-07:00

Antalya - Turkey

THE MAGNIFICENT ARARAT MOUNTAIN / AĞRI DAĞI (5.137 m)

The Magnificent Ararat Mountain with is 5.137 meters being the highest summit of Turkey is an extinct volcano. Ascending on top of the Eastern Asiatic volcanoes' chain, this mountain takes place on Russia & Iran - Turkey borders' crossroads. The Small Ararat Mountain with is 3.896 meters being also an extinct volcano is located South-East of the Magnificent Ararat Mountain. Amidst the two Ararat Mountains one can see "Serdarbulak Plateau". This plateau of lava connecting these two extinct Ararat volcano - mountains reaches an altitude of 2.600 meters.

Ascending between Iğdır Valley (840 m) in the North and Doğubeyazıt / Eastern Beyazıt Valley with its 1.640 meters' altitude on the South , the MAGNIFICENT ARARAT MOUNTAIN with is 5.137 meters offers a wonderful and magnificent panorama. The first ascent of the Magnificent Ararat Mountain has been accomplished by a German professor whose name was J. Von PARROT in September of the year 1829. Whilst the first ascent of this magnificent mountain in winter has been performed on February the 21 of the year 1970 by Dr. Bozkurt ERGÖR.

Ağrı Mountain known as THE MAGNIFICENT ARARAT MOUNTAIN by the western possesses a worldwide reputation as per Noah prophet legend taking place within the holy books.

THE ARARAT MOUNTAIN / PROGRAMME
Day 1 : Arrival into Doğubeyazıt, accommodation within hotel
Day 2 : Departure for Eliköy / Village of Eli with its 2.200 meters' altitude after breakfast and processing on mules to Yeşil / Green Camp; camp establishing and setting. Walking period : 4-7 hours
Day 3 : Departure from the Yeşil / Green Camp area after breakfast. Mountain ascent without load and return to Yeşil / Green Camp. Acclimatization ascent.
Day 4 : Arrival and establishment onto the camping area situated some 4.200 meters' altitude with all the equipment. Relaxation period. Ascent period of time : 4-6 hours.
Day 5 : Summit climbing after breakfast under favorable and adequate weather conditions. The Ararat Mountain summit : 5.137 meters. Return to the camp on 4.200 meters' altitude after summit ascent.
Day 6 : Should weather conditions not allow the ascent on previous day, re-trial.
Day 7 : Camp gathering, mules' gathering and return.
Ca. 5 to 7 hours. Accommodation in hotel in Doğubeyazıt.
Day 8 : Departure

Number of participants : 6-12 people
Services included in the price : * 2 nights' hotel accommodation
* 5 nights' camp accommodation
* guiding
* load carrying on mules
Services not-included in the price : * Transportation till Doğubeyazıt
* Personal equipment
* Tent, sleeping bag and mat
* Food and kitchen services on mountain
Tour participation conditions : * Not having any health problems
* Being prepares for high altitude
* Possessing mountaineering / mountain climbing knowledge and experience as well as relevant equipment.

MORE INFO

These scripts and photographs are registered under © Copyright 2006, Transnature / Antalya - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

FENER KITESURF

2006-09-17T09:33:00.000-07:00

Bodrum - Muğla - Turkey

Right on the windy tip of the Bodrum Peninsula on the Aegean Coast of Turkey. If you are a windsurfer or a kitesurfer, or you would like to learn windsurfing or kitesurfing and you are looking for a nice, warm and windy place; 12 years ago we found one in Turkey. We decided to build our centre here and make it the best possible.

Because this is the place where we wanted to windsurf as much as we could. We love to share it with our guests. The greatest thing about it, is to see people enjoying their holidays and improving their surfing.

In Fener you will find:
The best wind in Bodrum, and one of the best spots in Turkey
Perfect conditions for all levels (beginners to expert)
Latest models and a large amount of equipment
Qualified instructors
Multi-activity
Good accommodation
And a chance to discover the Bodrum area

Getting here:
Airports: Bodrum-Milas international Airport 60 km.
We can organize airport transfers by taxi or minibus.
You can rent a car from us and get it delivered to the airpot on your arrival.
You can make your own way by taxi or by bus via Bodrum town center.
Other ways to get here are via:-
Izmir (250 km)
Dalaman (260 km)
Greek island of Kos (40 km road, then 45 min ferry to Bodrum) has also an international airport
Fener beach is on the way from Akyarlar to Turgutreis. You can get there by a direct minibus service (dolmush) from Bodrum city center (20 km), from Turgutreis town (6 km) and from Akyarlar village (2 km).
The dolmush service is the cheapest way of travelling on Bodrum peninsula.
You can not miss the only lighthouse of the peninsula midway from Akyarlar village to Turgutreis. The dolmush driver will stop wherever you like.
The centre is next to the lighthouse you won't miss the flags and the windsurfers.

Iko Instructors Lessons
Discovery - 3 x 2h Euro 210
Evolution 1 - 3 x 2h Euro 240
Evolution 2 - 3 x 2h Euro 240
Evolution 1 - 5 x 2h Euro 285
Evolution 2 - 5 x 2h Euro 285
Kite and windsurf combination 1**4 x 1h30 discovery or evolution 1 + windsurf pool 345
Kite and windsurf combination 2** 4 x 1h30 evolution 2 + windsurf pool 370

Kitesurfing lessons are in French, English and Turkish only! Other languages are not available at present.

MORE INFO

These scripts and photographs are registered under © Copyright 2006, Fener Windsurf / Bodrum - Muğla - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

TRANSNATURE DALAMAN RAFTING

2006-09-17T09:20:00.000-07:00

Antalya - Turkey

DALAMAN RIVER
Archaically named INDOS, Dalaman River has its source within Kocaş Mountain located nearby Dirmil. It runs into the sea some 8 km south of Ortaca after its cource through a narrow and deep valley where two of its branches one coming from Göktepe and the other from Yaylacık Mountains being part of the Western Taurus Mountains merge together. Its total length is : 229 km. It takes place between the rivers that gather the biggest amount of tourists as far as rafting is concerned.

Dalaman River situated within Muğla city borders amongst Köyceğiz and Dalaman is offering you R2 (difficulty rate : 3+) and R3 (difficulty rate : 3-4+) level course services. The river increases the adrenaline of the participants to the rafting activity through its rapid and exciting course track.

DALAMAN RIVER R2
Difficulty Level 3+
Who Can Attend Everybody between the ages of 17-50 who hasn't got any serious illness and who know how to swim.
Length Of The Course 13 km
Road Conditions After Beyobası junction located between Köyceğiz and Ortaca 18 km asphalt, other parts are 36 km stabilized
Meeting point Between Ortaca and Köyceğiz at Salih's Restaurant
Meeting Time 09:00
Equipment Raft (for 6-7 people) , life jacket (buoyancy aid), helmet , paddle, wet suit for cold weather conditions.
Guides Turkish or foreigner guides experienced and educated in their subject.
Suitable Languages Turkish , English , German and Russian
Insurance 1 Million US$ + 50.000 US$
Participation Form By signing this form customers says that they join the tour with their own free will.
Breakfast We serve the breakfast in a village before the tour. Cheese , olive , butter, egg, jam/honey, tomatoes , cucumber, tea/nescafe
Food We give the lunch after the tour in a village.
grilled trout or chicken request of guest, grilled soussage , rice , potato salad , shepherd salad , season fruit

SERVICES INCLUDED WITH THE PRICE
Guidance, Insurance, Equipment, Transfer, Breakfast, Lunch

THINGS TO BRING
a) swimming suit / shorts b) sport shoes (can get wet)
c) extra t-shirt d) towel
e) sun cream f) sun glasses
g) cap h) MONEY (For extra drinks, photos and video cassettes)

DALAMAN RIVER R3
Day 1 Transfer to Akköprü Village, after having breakfast transfer to Narlı for R3, rafting on Dalaman River between Narlı and Meşebükü, the difficulty of which is class 3-4+. Our campsite is near the river of beginning R2.
Day 2 Having had breakfast we will raft from Meşebükü to Akköprü The difficulty of which is class 3+.

Difficulty Level 3-4+
Who Can Attend Everybody between the ages of 17-50 who hasn't got any serious illness and who know how to swim.
Length of the course 16 km
Road Conditions After Beyobası junction located between Köyceğiz and Ortaca 18 km asphalt, other parts are 36 km stabilized
Meeting point Between Ortaca and Köyceğiz at Salih's Restaurant
Meeting Time 09:00
Equipment Raft (for 3-4 people) life jacket (buoyancy aid), helmet, paddle, wet suit for cold weather conditions.
Guides Turkish or foreigner guides experienced and educated in their subject.
Suitable Languages Turkish , English , German and Russian
Insurance 1 Million US$ + 50.000 US$
Participation Form By signing this form customers says that they join the tour with their own free will.
Breakfast We serve the breakfast in a village before the tour. Cheese , olive , butter, egg, jam/honey, tomatoes , cucumber, tea/nescafe
Food We give the lunch after the tour in a village.
grilled trout or chicken request of guest, grilled soussage , rice , potato salad , shepherd salad , season fruit
Accommodation Tent, sleeping bag, mattress

THINGS TO BRING
a) swimming suit / shorts b) sport shoes (can get wet)
c) extra t-shirt d) towel
e) sun cream f) sun glasses
g) cap h) MONEY (For extra drinks, photos and video cassettes)

MORE INFO

These scripts and photographs are registered under © Copyright 2006, Transnature / Antalya - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

RUSH WINDSURFING

2006-09-17T09:17:00.000-07:00

Bodrum - Muğla - Turkey

On Bitez Beach, near Bodrum, Turkey. Rush Windsurfing is a long established school and board hire that suits both beginners and experts.

If you're looking for a high wind blasting location with warm waters, mild chop and hot sunny days, then Bitez is ideal for you.
If you want to learn windsurfing in a safe, sheltered bay with gentle winds then Bitez is ideal for you too!

This is possible because here we have gentle breezes for the learners in the mornings, followed by wild winds for the experts in the afternoons. Non and apres-surfers will find plenty to do. This is no barren wasteland. Bitez is a relatively quiet holiday beach with the wild nightlife of Bodrum and Gumbet only a few minutes away.

Bitez recently became a self governing local council (Belediye) and the new council swiftly brought in a wide range of positive improvements to the area. If you've been here before you'll be amazed at the changes. Larger scale works include the recently constructed Bodrum International Airport and it's access via a new dual carriageway road from Bodrum and Bitez.

Here's a panoramic tour of the beach. Sit back and enjoy the tour or take control yourself by pressing the buttons or clicking within the picture. You can also click the tower of the mosque to switch between evening and daytime scenes.

The weather.
The season runs from late May to Early November with the strongest winds being in June through September. Look here for the latest Bitez Bay wind statistics. Temperatures are hot all times, except during the night during the first few weeks at the beginning and end of the season. The sea is warm throughout. Surfers tend to sail in shorts or shorty suits. Forget that steamer or long john. Here's the most recent weather.

The boards
Take your pick from a wide selection of Mistral, Fanatic and F2.
All the sizes you'd expect from 263 to 325 for the short board sailors, and long boards from 330 all the way up for beginners and course racers.

The man
Running the school for over 10 years now, is Rush himself. That's also him up at the top of the page getting a little air out in the bay.
He's a qualified RYA (Royal Yachting Association) instructor with an excellent command of English and an incredibly patient instructing technique.
There's also an uncanny resemblance to a certain Robby if the light is just right.
That's his rescue boat in the background, so you won't have to fear being left to swim home.
In the winter he's a ski patroller in Bolu, one of Turkeys many ski resorts.

The sails
Nearly all are by Naish - Hawaii. Even the beginners ones! You'll probably only ever need two sizes because the winds here are so regular and free from gusts. A 5.5 and a 6.5 should do for most days, with maybe a 5.0 for the occasionally wild ones.
There are trainer sails for those who need them. You can also bring your favourite sail and Rush will find a mast and boom for you.

Accommodation High season is August and things get busy then. Otherwise you can find everything from 5 star hotels (with 5 star prices) down to camp sites, all on the beach. Rush can always help you find something. Or Norman Rouxel - the author of this page. I have two adjacent houses in Bitez. One sleeps 6 and the other suits a couple.

MORE INFO

These scripts and photographs are registered under © Copyright 2006, Rush Windsurfing / Bodrum - Muğla - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

TRANSNATURE ALADAGLAR TREKKING

2006-09-17T09:03:00.000-07:00

Antalya - Turkey

ALADAĞLAR : (3756 m)

They take place amongst the peaks of the undulating Taurus Mountains known to be the Mid-and Southern Taurus Mountains. Constituting the peak of the Mid-Taurus Mountains, Aladağlar are situated within Kayseri, Niğde and Adana city borders.

Stretching out on SW / NE direction and extending on ca. 50 km length, they cover a surface area extending on 25-30 km Demirkazık peak with 3756 m on the North, Kızılkaya with 3725 m in the Middle, Kaldı peak with 3688 m. in the South and Vayvay Hill with 3565 m zenith on the East constitute the top parts of these mountains. The region taking place within Adana city borders on South-East Aladağlar Mountains is known as Turasan or "Turhasan" Mountains.

ALADAĞ MOUNTAINS TREKKING PROGRAMME MIDDLE TAURUS MOUNTAINS
Day 1 Arrival to Ankara and transfer to Demirkazık Village, Accommodation in the Mountain Resort,
Day 2 After breakfast trekking to Sokullupınar Plateau (2.150 m), Camp overnight nearby semi-nomads,
Day 3 After breakfast trekking to Yedigoller Plateau (3.000 m), camp overnight ,
Day 4 After breakfast trekking to Embler Peak (3.725 m), camp overnight,
Day 5 After breakfast walking to Soğukpınar Plateau (1.800 m) through to Hacer Pass, camp overnight,
Day 6 After breakfast walking to Kapuzbaşı Waterfalls(1.000 m), Camp for Overnight nearby waterfalls,
Day 7 After breakfast transfer to Ankara via Yahyalı,
Accommodation at the hotel in Ankara.
Day 8 Transfer to Ankara Esenboğa Airport.

Guide : Experienced, speak foreign languages,
Insurance : From Trans Nature Travel Agency,
Equipment : Tents and mattress are suitable for mountaineering, Sleeping bag is extra.
Food : Breakfast, sandwich and dinner for mountain conditions.
Accommodation : Tent (for 2 person), pension&otel

MORE INFO

These scripts and photographs are registered under © Copyright 2006, Transnature / Antalya - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

TRANSNATURE ÇORUH RAFTING

2006-09-17T08:57:00.000-07:00

Antalya - Turkey

PROGRAMME OF CORUH RIVER 8 DAY TOUR (3-4-5+)
Day 1 Meeting and picking up from Erzurum Airport by our guides,
than transfer to Ispir. Staying in our campsite.
Day 2 After breakfast and briefing, we will give you training about rafting techniques and equipment. Our rafting will be on Çamlıkaya the difficulty of which is between class 3 and 5, It is 28 km from Ispir. Staying in our campsite.
Day 3 Having had breakfast we will go to Tekkale village which is 45 km from Çamlıkaya. We will have rafting there which is class 3-4. Then comes camping in Tekkale.

Day 4 We will have trekking after breakfast and briefing on "Dört Kilise" means "Four Churches" from Georgian. It is possible to catch fish (trout) in the clear stream. Camping on Tekkale.
Day 5 This day, we'll go to Yusufeli. There will be an accommodation at hotel and then free day.
Day 6 Today we will raft on Barhal Stream which flows into the Çoruh River. Accommodation at hotel in Yusufeli.
Day 7 Having had breakfast we will go to Yaylalar Village in Kaçkar Mountains for excursion. Accommodation at hotel in Yusufeli.
Day 8 The last day, After breakfast we will move to Erzurum Airport.

PROGRAMME OF CORUH RIVER 4 DAY TOUR (3-4-5+)
Day 1 Arriving to Erzurum Airport on midday flight, having lunch in Erzurum. Transfer to Ispir. There you'll visit the town in late afternoon or evening.
Day 2 Transfer to Yedigöze On this day you'll have training about the rafting. And then you'll make Rafting on the river which is class 3 , then comes camping at Çamlıkaya, near a fresh water spring
Day 3 Having had breakfast we will have rafting of class 3-4. Then camping at Tekkale.
Day 4 The last day, you will have morning rafting on Barhal Stream in Yusufeli, after that you'll be transferred to Erzurum for afternoon flight.

Number of participants Min 10 pax - maximum 20 pax
Guide We have professional guides with a knowledge of languages such as English, German, Russian They have a good experience and know their work professionaly.
Insurance The insurance will be done before rafting and trekking tours.
Equipment You will be given international standard equipment such as for rafting; life jackets, helmets, paddles, wetsuits, etc.

Food Breakfast (cheese, olive, jam, honey, egg, hot tea and nescafe) pocket lunch, dinner (soup, fish or meat, salad, rice, fruit, tea&nescafe) in camping. We will have in a restaurant breakfast and dinner in Ispir and Yusufeli.
Accommodation Tent (minimum for 2 person)
Hotel & bungalow (clean, comfortable and bath)
Date June and beginning of July

MORE INFO

These scripts and photographs are registered under © Copyright 2006, Transnature / Antalya - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

BABADAG PARAGLIDING

2006-09-06T11:34:00.000-07:00

Fethiye - Muğla - Turkey

BABADAĞ
The Babadağ Range of south-west Turkey (classical Mt. Cragus) rises out of the Fethiye plain, and stretches south 60 km. to the west end of the Patara Beach. This western side of the range rises straight up from the sea forming gorges, headlands, small coves and beaches.

The Ölüdeniz Bay and Lagoon immediately below the main peak is one of the most photographed beaches in the world. The heights are divided by a flood valley separating the Anti-Cragus with the main Cargus peak at 1967 meters from the subsidiary peak of Karadağ at 1400 meters.

The World Heritage Foundation has classified the mountain among the most important in the world, in urgent need of protection. This is due to the importance of its endemic species.

From time immemorable the mountains of the area have been regarded as sacred. Today Babadağ (literally Father Mountain) is known for its prime paragliding and ancient cedar forests.

The range and its surrounding area form part of a unique and scientifically interesting area with spectacular scenery, known geologically as the Lycian Nappe. Though seemingly a rugged and inhospitable coastline, the area has been settled since pre-Lycian times.

You can enjoy the scenery of the pine-clad hills dipping into turquoise seas from your chaise-longed on the beach. If you feel adventurous, follow a beckoning goat-track winding up the mountain through Myrtle Laurel and Arbutus, or drive up through the cedar forests to paragliding off Babadağ and land forty five minutes later beside the chaise-long on the beach!

OLUDENIZ
Ölüdeniz lies 12 km. south of the local town, Fethiye. Since the opening of an international airport (1984) at Dalaman, 65 km. away, the area, centered round the Ölüdeniz Beach has become one of the most popular touristic venues. This is due to the magnificent scenery, a clear turquoise sea, and interesting surroundings.

From the foothills of Babadağ a glistening white beach stretches 3 kilometers to a saltwater lagoon. This is now a National Park. The lagoon area is ideal for children learning swim, and lives up to its name... Ölüdeniz: Calm Sea. The beach area offers a choice of different cuisines, several bars and shops. As the resort is small, there is a friendly atmosphere, and within a few days you will get to know most of the "locals".

On the main beach, from which Rhodes can be spied on clear days, the shingle drops away fast, and after a few steps you are swimming. The beach is backed by family-run hotels, all built within the last 10 years. There are also several holiday villages. You can sit at a table on the beach-front, tasting your "Meze" sipping a Raki, while watching a myriad parachutes, some single some in tandem, as they wing down to a soft landing.

FETHIYE
Fethiye is located in South-West Mediterranean Turkey, connected to all other cities by three highways and reached very easily. Dalaman International Airport is as close as 50 km. to the town centre. During the tourist season one can find many flights from major European cities to Fethiye besides the domestic flights throughout the year by Turkish Airlines. Additionally Antalya Airport, three hour drive to Fethiye, is another departure point. Fethiye seaport with its sheltered natural structure is an important stop for yachtsmen. A new modern marina project will be realized soon for a large number of yachts with all facilities on the other end at the bay.

The whole region excluding Fethiye and Eşen lowlands is covered with high mountains forming the south western spurs of the Taurus Range. These mountains exceeding 2000 meters extend the coastline. On a sunny winter day it is a real pleasure to view the pines and snow decorated peaks intertwined with the blue sky. Besides the refreshing woody slopes with thyme, sage, laurel and pine trees the exceptional incense forest is another peculiarity of the Fethiye region. Covering a 100-hectare area the incense forest is an ideal campsite and a picnic area. Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and warm, wet winters prevails in the region temperatures are approximately 30°C in summers and usually not less than 12°C in winters. Seawater temperature is hardly below 17°C all year round.

7th International Ölüdeniz Air Games Festival
7th International Ölüdeniz Air Games Festival will be held between 25-29th of October 2006.

The 1st International Ölüdeniz Air Games Festival was held in 2000, since then it has been one of the most important air sports events all over the world.

Ölüdeniz is one of the most favorite places for paragliders, not only because of its charming view, but also because of the numerous opportunities that are provided to all levels of pilots.

PRIME PARAGLIDING
After half an hour driving to the summit of Babadağ, you can have an opportunity to fly single or tandem, do paragliding and land softly on Belcekız Beach. Babadağ and Belcekız is becoming a centre for paragliders .

Good wind conditions, thermals reaching up to 4000 meters ASL, fantastic views and proximity to the sea, make Ölüdeniz one of the safest scenic places to fly in the world.

Every year many paragliding schools bring their students to Ölüdeniz. The students get the possibility to fly several times a day, staying in the air for over an hour, doing SIV courses and XC flights.

There are several commercial tandem companies, whose pilots fly those who want to experience life on the wing, and view the world from a different angle There are two main take-offs, one at 1900 meters, and the other at 1700 meters. These are reached by a 4-wheel 27 km drive up through the cedar forests. When the road is closed by snow during winter months, a take off over the sea at 800 meters is used.

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These scripts and photographs are registered under © Copyright 2006, Babadağ / Fethiye - Muğla - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

EXTREME TANDEM PARAGLIDING

2006-09-06T10:42:00.000-07:00

Fethiye - Muğla - Turkey

Co-owned and run by professional pilots Extreme Paragliding is based in Izmir and Ölüdeniz. The company was formed in 1993 and has evolved into one of Turkeys premier paragliding Centers. Originally established to enable anyone with a spirit of adventure to fly safely in 'tandem' with a qualified paragliding pilot. Relatively new in Turkey as a tourist sport solo paragliding in Ölüdeniz is for qualified pilots only many of whom are now discovering this corner of the Mediterranean. The logistics of the terrain around Ölüdeniz make it unsuitable for training. However, we can arrange courses in Izmir just a few hours north of Ölüdeniz, where confidence and experience can be acquired in a gentler environment

The sheer exhilaration of that first flight with an experienced pilot is just the beginning. Many tandem fliers go on to take up the sport seriously and eventually to obtain their paragliding pilots license. The thrill and solitude of flying solo beckons, you just need a spirit of adventure and tuition from dedicated professionals, to be there.

The safety aspects of any potentially hazardous sports is always the foremost consideration for beginners. It is for this reason that Extreme have qualified Pilots and use only modern, internationally approved equipment. All activities are covered by full insurance underwritten by the international Commercial Union company

OLUDENIZ
Situated in a valley formed by high, pine covered mountains on three sides and facing the clear turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea is the holiday resort of Ölüdeniz. Unlike many of the resorts in Turkey, Ölüdeniz is located in the middle of a conservation area, which means that it has retained much of its natural beauty. True the village now resembles a large holiday village. However, unlike purpose made holiday villages, Ölüdeniz has all the character and diversity of a cosmopolitan resort. For Paragliding the combination of predictable weather, high mountains, blue sea, easy access and a holiday atmosphere combine to make Ölüdeniz the perfect venue.

It is not surprising therefore that Ölüdeniz has become something of a Mecca for paragliding enthusiasts from all over the world. A diversity of accommodation is available in the area and transport by public minibus is cheap and frequent. Our Parasailing packages are tailor made to suit your requirements, we can arrange international flights, domestic flights, airport welcome, transfers, hotels and apartments. If paragliding is just a part of your adventure we can arrange Scuba Diving, windsurfing and trips to the odd historical site or two. The busy and continually expanding metropolis of Fethiye is just 4 Km away, and worth a visit to see another side of Turkey.

Novice tandem flight 2 hours $105 £65 €110
3 tandem flight package 2 hours x 3 $295 £185 €310
6 tandem flight package 2 hours x 6 $575 £360 €610
Includes hotel pick-up, basic instruction, transport to take off site, flight with qualified Pilot, full insurance and all equipment. Times are approximate

Members of TURSAB The Association of Turkish Travel Agencies

From the moment you decide on an Adventure Vacation in Turkey our British and Turkish staff are at your service

We provide a personal service for independent travelers, adventure seekers and specialist interest groups from all over the world. Whatever your interests or preferences, together we can plan your vacation and itinerary. Our information and holiday planning service is FREE and as soon as we receive your inquiry we respond promptly

From the moment you arrive in Turkey we are available to help you. We can provide assistance at the airport and transport you to your hotel, resort or yacht. Our aim is to ensure that all arrangements go as smoothly as possible, and our wish is that your adventure vacation in Turkey will be the first of many

We deal only with yacht agencies, excursion operators and hotels who provide standards of service we are able to recommend. If you want to Paragliding, Scuba Dive, Windsurf, Charter a traditional wooden sailing Gulet, or skipper your own way around the Aegean by modern yacht, Turkey has every adventure sport

MORE INFO

These scripts and photographs are registered under © Copyright 2006, The Extreme Tandem Paragliding Company / Fethiye - Muğla - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

TRANSNATURE ALADAGLAR TREKKING

2006-09-06T10:33:00.000-07:00

Antalya - Turkey

ALADAĞLAR : (3756 m)

They take place amongst the peaks of the undulating Taurus Mountains known to be the Mid-and Southern Taurus Mountains. Constituting the peak of the Mid-Taurus Mountains, Aladağlar are situated within Kayseri, Niğde and Adana city borders.
Stretching out on SW / NE direction and extending on ca. 50 km length, they cover a surface area extending on 25-30 km.

Demirkazık peak with 3756 m. on the North, Kızılkaya with 3725 m. in the Middle, Kaldı peak with 3688 m. in the South and Vayvay Hill with 3565 m. zenith on the East constitute the top parts of these mountains. The region taking place within Adana city borders on South-East Aladağlar Mountains is known as Turasan or "Turhasan" Mountains.

ALADAĞ MOUNTAINS TREKKING PROGRAMME MIDDLE TAURUS MOUNTAINS
Day 1 Arrival to Ankara and transfer to Demirkazık Village, Accommodation in the Mountain Resort,
Day 2 After breakfast trekking to Sokullupınar Plateau (2.150 m), Camp overnight nearby semi-nomads,
Day 3 After breakfast trekking to Yedigoller Plateau (3.000 m), camp overnight ,
Day 4 After breakfast trekking to Embler Peak (3.725 m), camp overnight,
Day 5 After breakfast walking to Soğukpınar Plateau (1.800 m) through to Hacer Pass, camp overnight,
Day 6 After breakfast walking to Kapuzbaşı Waterfalls(1.000 m), Camp for Overnight nearby waterfalls
Day 7 After breakfast transfer to Ankara via Yahyalı.
Accommodation at the hotel in Ankara.
Day 8 Transfer to Ankara Esenboğa Airport.

Guide : Experienced, speak foreign languages,
Insurance : From Trans Nature Travel Agency,
Equipment : Tents and mattress are suitable for mountaineering, Sleeping bag is extra.
Food : Breakfast, sandwich and dinner for mountain conditions.
Accommodation : Tent (for 2 person), pension&otel

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These scripts and photographs are registered under © Copyright 2006, Transnature / Antalya - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

TRANSNATURE CANYONING

2006-09-06T10:32:00.000-07:00

Antalya - Turkey

MUĞLA-KÖYCEĞİZ

There are a lot of activities to do in Toparlar Village of Köyceğiz, such as;

swimming in a deep-small cauldron
swimming in waterfalls
jumping from the rocks to the ponds
climbing out of the water to the waterfalls by ropes

The tour, which has only the difficulty of level 1, is applied to all healthy people. It's for the minimum number of three, the maximum number of ten people.

Equipment : Helmet, Buoyancy Aid, rope for the climbing, safety belt
Guide : he/she has a UIAA K2 licence, speaks the current language
Food : A lunch-packet during the trip, fish&chicken after the trip with rice, three kinds of salat and some season fruit
Insurance : Appropriate for daily conditions

The equipment they will need

- A pair of sport shoes for in the water
- A rucksack
- One liter of water (to drink)
- A cap, sun lotion
- A second t-shirt, a pair of shorts
- A towel, a pair of dry shoes to wear after the trip,

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These scripts and photographs are registered under © Copyright 2006, Transnature / Antalya - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

TRANSNATURE BEY MOUNTAINS TREKKING

2006-08-21T10:30:00.000-07:00

Antalya - Turkey

BEY MOUNTAINS (MT. BEY) TREKKING PROGRAMME WEST TAURUS MOUNTAINS- MEDITERRANEAN

Day 1 : Arrival to Antalya Airport, transfer to Forest Camp Base, set up camp for overnight,
Day 2 : After breakfast trek to Kuyular (2.300 m). Lunch and rest, Trek to Kızlar Sivrisi Peak (3.070 m) to sign peak notebook, turn back to Kuyular Camp.

Day 3 : After breakfast trekking in the forest, camp for overnight,
Day 4 : After breakfast 6 hours walking to Ot Çukuru Camp Base.
Day 5 : After breakfast trek to Tahtalı Peak (2.366 m) to sign peak notebook, Turn back to campsite.

Day 6 : After breakfast walk to Beycik Village. Transfer to antic Olympos City near seaside by minibus. Set up camp or stay in a pension&otel.
Day 7 : In the evening trek to the antic Çıralı (Chimaera) Area. Accommodation in a pension&otel.
Day 8 : Transfer to Antalya Airport.

Guide : Experienced two guides, speak foreign languages,
Insurance : From Trans Nature Travel Agency,
Equipment : Tents and mattress are suitable for mountaineering, Sleeping bag is extra.
Food : Breakfast, sandwich and dinner for mountain conditions.
Accommodation : Tent (for 2 person), pension&otel

MORE INFO

These scripts and photographs are registered under © Copyright 2006, Transnature / Antalya - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

TRANSNATURE ABSEILING

2006-08-21T10:21:00.000-07:00

Antalya - Turkey

Abseiling from 15 m to 45 m
Experienced guides
Equipments

Transfer
Insurance
Delicious meals

MORE INFO

These scripts and photographs are registered under © Copyright 2006, Transnature / Antalya - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

TRANSNATURE KÖPRÜÇAY RAFTING

2006-08-21T10:11:00.000-07:00

Antalya - Turkey

KÖPRÜÇAY
Difficulty level 1+
Who can attend Anybody between the age of 6-60, who has no serious illness and knows how to swim.
Length of the course 11 km
Meeting Point Trans Nature Finish Point
Meeting Time 09:30
Equipment Raft (for 6-10 people) , life jacket (buoyancy aid), helmet , paddle, wet suit for cold weather conditions.
Guide Turkish or foreigner guides experienced and educated in their subject.
Suitable Languages Turkish , English , German and Russian
Insurance 1 Million US$ + 50.000 US$
Participation Form By signing this form customers says that they join the tour with their own free will.
Food We give the lunch in the middle of the tour. Grilled trout or chicken request of guest, beans stewed in olive oil, a vegetable dish, rice , potato salad , shepherd salad , sauces, season fruit

SERVICES INCLUDED WITH THE PRICE
Guidance, Insurance, Equipment, Transfer, Breakfast, Lunch

TECHNICAL INFORMATION ON THE KÖPRÜÇAY RIVER AND TOUR

As you will see from the appended diagram headed "KÖPRÜÇAY RAFTING RIVER KAYAKING COURSE" , our course is 11 km. long and ends 2 km. from the concrete bridge.

Upon arrival of your transfer vehicles at our professional guides brief your guests on the tour to be made, the course and the technical equipment in four languages, Turkish, English, German and Russian.

Our tour starts at 11.00 between 10.00 and 11.00, after passing through the first rapid, takes a break for entertainment's and swimming at the Böğrüm Bridge, following which the point for the lunch stop is reached at 12.30. Our choice of menu has been prepared for the pleasure of guests who are vegetarian or who prefer not to eat red meat and comprises grilled chicken or trout, beans stewed in olive oil or a vegetable dish, rice, potato, salad, various seasonal salads, sauces and fruit.

After a lunch break of approximately one hour, the course is followed to the 7 km. point where our guests enjoy Body Rafting and other entertainment's. After guests have paddled the remaining 6 km. this enjoyable trip comes to an end at 16.00. At the of the tour, we offer a photographic service to enable guests to obtain a permanent record of their experiences.

THE KÖPRÜÇAY RAFTING course includes rapids of levels 1 and 2 on the international difficulty rafting scale. For this reason, there is no need for any previous experience in order to join in the activity on the river. Everybody who knows how to swim and doe not suffer from health problems may take part in the tour.

Our groups enjoy an exciting and beautiful day in complete security under the supervision of our professional guides who have a high level of experience and knowledge. We have two types of boat amongst our equipment, these being 8 - seats raft and 2 - seats DUCKY inflatable boats.

All customers and their guides as well as our own guides taking part in tours are insured by our company.

MORE INFO

These scripts and photographs are registered under © Copyright 2006, Transnature / Antalya - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

KAÇKAR MOUNTAIN HELISKIING

2006-08-21T09:46:00.000-07:00

Heliskiing from Turkey Heliski

We have two ideal locations from which to ski :
The first is the Kaçkar range, North East Turkey, close to the Black Sea. We have chosen an awesome stretch, some 100 km long by 35 km wide. The highest summit is 3.900 m with the average vertical drop between 700 m and 1.200 m. The range is reputed for its good snow and the stability of the snow cover due to the proximity of the ocean.

The second is located to the south east of the country within the Taurus Mountains in the Aladağ Range, in close proximity to the Mediterranean Sea. The highest summit in this sector has an altitude of 3.700 m with a greater average vertical drop of 1.000 m to 1.500 m. The Taurus Mountains, whilst not as steep as the Kaçkar range, benefit from more sun. No stay will be organized in this mountain in 2007.

Our structure is built to allow you to live your dream in the best conditions:

No inertia due to the size of the groups.
No unnecessary waiting for the helicopters.
Choice of the slopes according to your wishes and to the group level.
Independence within the groups

The "STANDARD" package
We take a maximum of 4 groups of 4 people per week. Each group is lead by a guide. One helicopter takes the groups in rotation.

The "PRIVATE" package
One helicopter for one group. With this arrangement, you will benefit from a greater flexibility in the choice of slopes on the summit and you will be completely independent in the organization of your stay. We take one private group of 1 to 8 people per week, with 2 guides leading the party regardless of the size of the group.

Staff at the base:
2 helicopter pilots.
1 mechanic.
6 mountain guides.
1 base manager for the organization and the coordination of the hotel and the land infrastructure.
" The sum of their experiments is at the same time the richness of our company and the guarantee of your safety "

The helicopters :
The helicopters, Ecureuil B2 or B3, belong to the company Air Zermatt. They performed well in
the mountain environment and have a 5 passengers capacity.

The guides :
The guides are all members of the UIAGM and have a wealth of heliski experience, having worked in several other heliski operations around the world. Some of them are also helicopter pilots and professional rescuers.

The pilots :
The pilots have the same quality of experience and performance level; they are Swiss and work regularly for heliski operations.

SECURITY

Briefing : Each stay begins with a briefing of safety considerations for an enjoyable heliskiing experience. Every skier receives a leaflet with all needed information. The procedure of loading and unloading the helicopter are part of this briefing. Practical session will follow the theory in which you'll practice using your avalanche transceivers.

Your safety equipment
1 Airbag ABS backpack with a shovel and a probe.
1 Ortovox (avalanche transceiver)
1 safety Memo
(small recap regarding the procedure in the case of an avalanche)
Guide’s equipment :

First aid kit including a neck brace and inflatable splints.
1 radio and 1 satellite phone to communicate with the other guides, pilots and the base.
Equipment in the helicopter :

A bag with :
1 comprehensive first aid kit.
Ventilation balloons, oxygen bottle.

Equipment at the base :
First aid station is setup at the base, including evacuation stretchers, vacuum splints and stretchers, neck braces, oxygen, ventilation balloons, security blankets etc.
Pharmacy with an extensive range of medications for small as well as more serious health problems.
Avalanche equipment with shovels and probes.

ACCOMODATION :
You will place with the Hotel Haşimoğlu - Ayder
The rooms are small but comfortable, with : an ensuite bathroom and shower, a telephone, satellite TV, mini bar and hairdryer are provided
In the hotel, you can enjoy the use of a Turkish bath, a whirlpool and an internet connection.
You have the possibility of placing in a single room with the help of a supplement of €. 250.-- for the week.

OTHER ACTIVITIES
A thermal spring spa with water at 40 degrees is located adjacent to the hotel….the perfect way to end a long days skiing.
Visit the surrounding region or a historical village on the edge of the Black Sea.
Snow shoe trails.
Horse trails and in ski touring .

YOUR EQUIPMENT

Clothing
As the climate is similar to that of the Alps, your usual skiwear will be adequate for your week’s heliskiing.

As the helicopter rides are shorter than those on chairlifts and it is not cold inside the helicopter, you will find that you do not get as cold as you do when skiing in a station. Your gloves however will become wet far quicker as you need to clear the snow off your skis and boards in order to pack them into the ski pods. We advise you to take one or two extra pairs of gloves as well as a pair of mittens.

Bring along strong sun protection and don't forget a decent pair of goggles, the powder is deep and even in good weather ordinary sunglasses will rapidly become clogged with powder.

Ski or snowboard
We recommend you adapt your technical equipment for powder skiing and either use the skis supplied by the base or bring your own.
We do not supply snowboards, so please bring your own snowboard, adapted for powder conditions - the longer the better.
Each base is equipped to be able to perform minor repairs to ski and snowboard equipment.

Shopping
A small shop at each base will be able to supply forgotten or lost equipment such as goggles, gloves, sunscreen, beanies,etc.

ACCESSING AYDER, KAÇKAR :(most directly)

Saturday
Arrive Istanbul

Sunday
Flight Istanbul - Trabzon
Welcome by Turkey Heliski representative 7h00 - 8h50
Bus transfer to Ayder (180 km) 9h00 - 11h30
Settle into your hotel
Lunch at the hotel

Saturday
Bus transfer to Trabzon after the days’ skiing 17h00 - 19h30
Dinner and overnight in Hotel Zorlu ****

Sunday
Breakfast at hotel 8h00
Transfer to airport 9h00 - 9h10
Flight Trabzon – Istanbul 10h00 - 11h45
Depart Istanbul from 12h00

STANDARD WEEKS
6 days heliskiing, 30.500 vertical meters with 20.000 guaranteeds.
Maximum 4 groups of 4 personnes by week, 1 guide by group.
Price : €. 5.300.-- / person

Price Includes
Airport transfers to and from Trabzon,
Accommodation in a twin room and all meals,
6 days heliskiing, 30.500 vertical meters with 20.000 guaranteed,
Use of safety equipment: Air Bag ABS, shovel, probe
and avalanche transceiver (Ortovox),
Use of “Fat boy” skis for powder skiing
(Atomic Sugar Daddy, Big Daddy).

Not Included
Flights to and from Trabzon, Drinks, Single supplement, Vertical supplement.

Single supplement - €.250.--
Vertical supplement - €. 90.--/1.000 meters
Reimbursement if 20.000 vertical meters not reached - €. 80.--/1.000 meters

PRIVATE WEEKS
6 days heliskiing, with 6 hour of helicopter.
1 group of 3 - 8 persons with 2 guides.
A private helicopter and guide at your disposal… If you wish you can extend your private group up to 8 persons. You choose, whether it’s cruising powder bowls or dropping into a steep gully…tailor-made heliskiing with no limits!

Price Includes
Airport transfers to and from Trabzon.
Accommodation in twin room and all meals.
6 days heliskiing.
Use of safety equipment: Air Bag ABS, shovel, probe
and avalanche victim detector (Ortovox).
Use of “Fat boy” skis for powder skiing
(Atomic Sugar Daddy, Big Daddy).

Not Included
Drinks, Flights to and from Trabzon, Single supplement : €.250.--/week, Flying time supplement : €. 1.800.--/hour.

SKI TOURING

6 days skitouring including 6 helicopter hours.
Groups of 8 people.
Maximum 2 groups per week.

Price: € 2.900.- / pers.

These prices include
The transfers from Trabzon airports.
Accommodation in a double room on a full board basis.
Heliskiing.
The safety equipment : Air bag ABS back pack, shovel, probe, Ortovox (avalanche transceiver).

They don't include
Flight to Trabzon airport.
Accommodation in Istanbul (if required)
Drinks.
Extra helicopter hours: € 1800.- / per hour
Extra for the single room: € 250.-

PROGRAM KACKAR :

Saturday
Fly to Istanbul
Overnight in Istanbul

Sunday
Fly Istanbul - Trabzon
Transfer to Ayder
Check into your hotel
Safety and Helicopter briefing

Monday to Friday
Heliski

Saturday
Heliski
Late afternoon transfer to Trabzon
Overnight in Trabzon

Sunday :
Fly Trabzon - Istanbul
Return flight from Istanbul

MORE INFO

These scripts and photographs are registered under © Copyright 2006, Turkey Heliski / Istanbul - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

TURKEY BALLOONS CAPPADOCIA TOUR

2006-07-09T10:05:00.000-07:00

Nevşehir - Turkey

Cappadocia is a joint creation of Nature and Human Reseurcefulness. The term Cappadocia is Persian for the "land of beautiful horses". It is an enchanting open-air museum and an unparalleled example of the common cultural heritage of humanity.

Centered on the triangle of Nevşehir, Ürgüp and Avanos, Cappadocia is in the middle of a once active volcanic region.

At the time when Anatolia was completing its geographical evolution, these volcanic eruptions were so strong that the lava in some places was up to 100 meters thick.

Over many millions of years, volcanoes, wind, rain and ice sculpted what we know as Cappadocia. As the land eroded, the basalt stones remained and formed conical structures sometimes reaching as high as 45 meters.

The local people called these unique rock formations "Fairy Chimneys", a name that has endured throughout ages If nature wast the first artist to arrange the decor, it was Anatolian man who over the centuries carved the rocks and built houses, churches and over 120 underground cities.

The largest of these, Özkonak, once had a population of sixty thousand. The canyon formed by the Melendiz stream, which has pierced its way through the rocks, is called the Ihlara Valley. In this 14 km long valley there are 105 churches and 4535 houses.

Cappadocia defites description. You have to visit here and bathe in its atmosphere, colours and luminance.

MORE INFO

These scripts and photographs are registered under © Copyright 2006, Turkey Balloons / Nevşehir - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

FENER WINDSURF

2006-07-09T09:50:00.000-07:00

Bodrum - Muğla - Turkey

Right on the windy tip of the Bodrum Peninsula on the Aegean Coast of Turkey. If you are a windsurfer or a kitesurfer, or you would like to learn windsurfing or kitesurfing and you are looking for a nice, warm and windy place; 12 years ago we found one in Turkey. We decided to build our centre here and make it the best possible.

Because this is the place where we wanted to windsurf as much as we could. We love to share it with our guests. The greatest thing about it, is to see people enjoying their holidays and improving their surfing.

In Fener you will find:
The best wind in Bodrum, and one of the best spots in Turkey
Perfect conditions for all levels (beginners to expert)
Latest models and a large amount of equipment
Qualified instructors
Multi-activity
Good accommodation
And a chance to discover the Bodrum area

Getting here:
Airports: Bodrum-Milas international Airport 60 km.
We can organize airport transfers by taxi or minibus.
You can rent a car from us and get it delivered to the airpot on your arrival.
You can make your own way by taxi or by bus via Bodrum town center.
Other ways to get here are via:-
Izmir (250 km)
Dalaman (260 km)
Greek island of Kos (40 km road, then 45 min ferry to Bodrum) has also an international airport
Fener beach is on the way from Akyarlar to Turgutreis. You can get there by a direct minibus service (dolmush) from Bodrum city center (20 km), from Turgutreis town (6 km) and from Akyarlar village (2 km).
The dolmush service is the cheapest way of travelling on Bodrum peninsula.
You can not miss the only lighthouse of the peninsula midway from Akyarlar village to Turgutreis. The dolmush driver will stop wherever you like.
The centre is next to the lighthouse you won't miss the flags and the windsurfers.

Windsurfing Lessons and Training
Beginners - Intermediate & Advanced Navigation,Waterstart and Gybe trainings

Lessons & Training
6 h beginners course
10 h beginners course
6 improvement course ( harness, navigation, foot straps, water start, gybe and more )
1h private training ( harness, navigation, foot straps, water start, gybe and more )

Fener Windsurf / Bodrum - Muğla - Turkey

These scripts and photographs are registered under © Copyright 2006, Fener Windsurf / Bodrum - Muğla - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

PIRLANTA KITESURF BEACH

2006-07-09T09:40:00.000-07:00

Çeşme - Izmir - Turkey

This newest ,maximum adrenaline pumping sport of the extreme sports family invites you to our kitesurf center at Turkey’s first offically aproved kitebeach with it’s unbelievable view atraction.Pırlanta beach - Çeşme. Come over here and be the part of the wind and the nature with us where the bluest sky meets the deep blue sea.

Kitesurfing is completing itself with many other extremesports.Kitesurfing is the new generation of windsurfing. Now, because of the demand to windsurf from the young people which becames less, starting from the new millenium, windsurfing became an over middle aged people sport. Therefore kitesurfing is the speediest growing extremesport. The similarity of board riding technics with snowboarding, wakeboarding, skateboarding, rollerblading, mountainboarding made the riders of those extremesports start kiteboarding. And then kitesnowboarding, kiteskiing started to become popular. Not only on the sea, it’s also a great pleasure to ride on snow.

It is not hard to be able to kitesurf. Only by spending few hours you’ll be a part of the sport. You will be a real kite pilot with the helps of our aproved teachers.

The Kitehouse @ Kitesurfbeach Çeşme
Paul Menta who is one of the best signiture on Kiteboarding sector and his new kitehouse integrated with Husnu Baylav's kitesurfbeach as the brand new kitecenter of Europe. The Kitehouse who will open it's doors at 15th of June will be the new test center for the 2006 and 2007 Cabrinha kites and boards and will organize kite clinics and courses with world fameous kiteboarders.

Cabrinha US team at kitesurfbeach
With the newest security system and the new innovation of the kiteboard,the bow kites Cabrinhakites had the most secure kite awards. Cabrinha pilots Clarisa Hempel and Michael Minichiello was at kitesurfbeach on May 2006. Our Turkish worldcupper Julie Simsar, Turkish champion Semih Arikan, Tolga Arsan, Kaya Karaca and Husnu Baylav was with them during their visit to Çeşme.

FOR KITESURFERS BY KITESURFERS
One of the 10 best windy beaches of Turkey which is blue flagged who has the name from its' diamond sand ,because of its' non gusty, steady wind is also aproved by the best kitesurfers of the world. Three years ago, 2002-2003 world champion Cindy MOSEY kitesurfed with us at the kitesurfbeach and she said this spot will be one of the best of the world.

And two years ago, World Title Marc RAMSIER, Japon Champion Tomoko OKAZAKI, German Champion Kristin BOESE who came to the kitesurfbeach with the crazy French surf photographer Ugo RICHARD made a bigggg action, higggggh in the air and shooted a lot of tricks over the sky of our .Thank you guys…. For them this is a good playground. Oriental breeze, the kite travel story written by Tomoko and the photos from Ugo is already published on different kitesurf mags with different languages.

Last year we were up to the sky with all the European champions at Pırlanta Beach.They will be again at our playground fort he events that We will be hosting for national and international events on 2005 with the Turkish Federation.You can check the dates of our water & air competitions from the PKRA's official site www.pkra.info To be able to give you a better sevice, we also have a clean and simple beachcafe with its'international cuisine.

In our kitecenter we have a kiteschool aproved from SCSPF as IKO Turkey, a kiteshop where you can rent and buy meterial and accessories, and we have a lounge area where you can sunbed un top of the pillows on green grass.

At kitesurfbeach and the spots that we will take you due to the meteorological needs, our T.K.A aproved school will teach you how to kitesurf.The course program is developed on three stages.

ENTRY LEVEL
* Introduction to kites
* Rigging up
* Launching (from the beach)
* Landing (to the beach)
* Control technics
* Body drag
* Water start

MEDIUM LEVEL
* Board riding technics
* Downwind sailing
* Upwind sailing
* Jibing technics
* First jump

ADVANCE LEVEL
* Advanced jibing technics
* Advanced jumping technics

ONE TO ONE
* For any informations from any level, one on one course

KITECAFE
The Cosy Cafe And Club which is integrated to Kitesurfbeach , will be very happy to host you when you want to run away from the wind to rest a little. You can eat and drink from our menu specially prepared for riders and non-surfers as well. Our friendly staff will be very happy to serve you.

The 'back garden' of the cosy cafe is a real lazy house for the ones who want to have sunbedding on top of our fluffy pillows.If you want to rest on the shadow we also have huge sunbrellas.

Pırlanta Kitesurf Beach / Çeşme - Izmir - Turkey

These scripts and photographs are registered under © Copyright 2006, Pırlanta Kitesurf Beach / Çeşme - Izmir - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

KAPADOKYA BALLOON TOUR

2006-07-01T14:37:00.000-07:00

As the people that pioneered ballooning in Cappadocia, we share your love for adventure. It's that passion, tempered with more than twenty years of experience flying balloons that has helped us become the best ballooning operator in Turkey. Every flight is a fantastic adventure as we float intimately amongst the fairy chimneys and soar over the magnificent Cappadocian landscape.

A flight with Kapadokya Balloons™ is truly "the experience of a lifetime!" Join us in Cappadocia, for the best ballooning adventures on earth! And rest assured that there are no better pilots in Turkey than Lars and Kaili.

Cappadocia
The ancient region of Cappadocia lies in central Anatolia, between the cities of Nevşehir, Kayseri and Niğde. Here, the traveler finds one of the most fantastic landscapes in the world. Wind and weather have eroded soft volcanic rock into hundreds of strangely shaped pillars, cones and "fairy chimneys", often very tall, and in every shade from pink through yellow to russet browns.

Cappadocia is an extraordinary land, combining unique and beautiful natural features with a fascinating cultural and historical past. Hittites, Byzantines and early Christians established important landmarks here, as did Mother Nature with her stunning erosion of the soft volcanic deposits.

Göreme is the heart of Cappadocia and is an important area for shopping, with its wonderful carpets and kilims, onyx souvenirs, and very fine local wines. It is also a wonderful region for trekking and for photo-safaris. The scenery is breathtaking in all four seasons: miniature poppies in the springtime, the fruit and flowers of summertime, autumn's grapes and blaze of gold, and the winter blanket of snow.

BALLOONING

A hot-air balloon flight is unique from all other experiences of flight as there is no sensation of motion. Travelling at heights of up to 1500 feet, the feeling is one of peace and tranquility. The earth slowly descends and rotates below you. Within moments after lifting off you become at ease while you effortlessly drift over the treetops and the spectacular Cappadocian landscape. It is like a dream to gently float over the countryside in complete harmony with your surroundings.

The deep canyons and lush fertile valleys of Cappadocia provide our balloons with an ideal playground for a unique and memorable flight; gentle winds carry us over places that could never be reached except by balloon. Ballooning can be such fun! In season we can even pick apricots from the trees!

How many people can ride in a hot air balloon?
Balloons are constructed with greater or lesser volume to carry more or less weight. The smallest passenger balloons carry just the pilot! The largest passenger transporter in operation has a capacity of 24 passengers plus the pilot. Our balloons are designed to carry between 6 and 16 passengers.

How long does a balloon flight last?
The actual flight time averages more than an hour.

What fuel do balloons use?
Our hot air balloons carry 60 to 110 gallons (120 to 200 kg) of propane in stainless steel fuel tanks. We expect to use roughly 75% of the fuel during a single flight.

About Us
We are Kapadokya Balloons™. We offer ballooning adventures in Cappadocia Turkey. Kapadokya Balloons™ is the oldest established ballooning company in Turkey. We have flown more passengers in Turkey than all the other balloon companies combined, past and present. Our experience in this region allows us to choose the best launching locations for the most scenic flights possible for each day's weather conditions.

Lars and Kaili, our chief pilots, have almost 45 years of combined ballooning experience. They have personally flown close to 50,000 passengers, while maintaining a perfect safety record. Our fleet of luxury aircraft are the newest, safest and most comfortable balloons available in the world today. Our insurance coverage and safety standards far exceed that required by Turkish, European and American regulations.

Our Pilots
Lars and Kaili are the most experienced pilots in Turkey. They have accumulated valuable experience piloting large passenger balloons in Europe and America over the last 23 years and the novelty of the business never wears off! Every flight has its unique cocktail of events, dipping down to pick the apricots from the tree in flight and soaring above the landscape, picking out landmarks never before noticed.
Sharing the thrill with first-time passengers is a pilot's greatest privilege and never loses its charm...

MORE INFO

These scripts and photographs are registered under © Copyright 2006, Kapadokya Balloons / Nevşehir - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

GURTOUR TOURISM FORMULA 1 GRANDPRIX

2006-06-29T12:26:00.000-07:00

ISTANBUL OTODROM CIRCUIT
Formula 1 Turkey Grandprix Race Circuit

Length : 5.378 m
Width : 14 - 21,5 m
Number of Turns : 14
Radius of Sharpest Corner : 15 m
Start/Finish Length : 655,5 m
Maximum Speed (estimated) : 320 km/h
Number of Tyre Barriers : 124.000

8 Days F1 Tour
7 Nights 8 Days
Ottoman and Byzantine relics, Roman Hippodrome, Serpentine Column.
Includes friday, saturday and sunday sessions (Practise, Qualifying, Warm-Up, Race, Shows)

Per person in double room 1350 €
Single Supplement 700 €

DAY 1 / (15 AUG) ISTANBUL
Arrive at Ataturk International Airport in Istanbul, the only city in the world that spans two continents. You will be met with a friendly "merhaba" (hello) from your English speaking guide and driver who escort you to hotel for check-in. After a few hours of relaxing in your room you will meet in the hotel lobby and depart for a delicious Turkish meal at a nearby local restaurant. Turkish cuisine is rated as one of the three most sophisticated and refined cuisines in the world along with French and Chinese cuisines.

DAY 2 / (16 AUG) IST - Bosphorus
Morning departure by motor coach with Your guide for a drive over the Galata Bridge which spans the Golden Horn that divides Old Istanbul from New Istanbul. Your drive will lead you to Dolmabahce Palace on the banks of the Bosphorus where you will start your touring. The palace was the last residence of the Ottoman Sultans and is believed to be one of the most expensive and ostentatious palaces in the world. After the palace you will proceed to the Kabatas Port and board for a cruise on the Bosphorus past old Ottoman palaces and well preserved castles. After you dock on and have lunch you will stop for coffee at the Pierre Lotti Cafe to take in the inspirational view of the city that inspired Lotti, a famous French author (1850-1923) to write poems about Istanbul. This evening group dinner at dinner at the Urcan Restaurant, a famous fish restaurant located on the Bosphorus.

DAY 3 / (17 AUG) IST - Byzantium&Ottoman Relics
Morning tour of the area around Sultanahmet. This tour will include both Ottoman and Byzantine relics. Your first stop will be at the Roman Hippodrome area to see the famous Egyptian Obelisk and the Serpentine Column (Delphi Tripod). You will go inside the Blue Mosque, a great masterpiece of Turkish architecture with the interior walls decorated by brilliant blue tiles. You will proceed to the nearby 6th century Byzantine cathedral, Hagia Sophia, one of the most architecturally important buildings in the world. After lunch in the Konyali Restaurant on the grounds of the Topkapi Palace, you will visit the palace that was the residence of the Sultans, the harem, and the museum to see many of the extravagant objects with which the Sultans surrounded themselves and the holly relics (legendary baton of Prophet Moses, sword and beard of Pophet Muhammed in Treasure Section). From the palace you will proceed to the nearby underground Cistern Yerebatan Sarnici dating from the 6th century. This evening group dinner at Orient House to watch floor show of famous belly dancers, Turkish folk groups including set menu dinner and limited drink.

DAY 4 / (18 AUG) ISTANBUL - Free Day
Today is free to explore on your own. Sultanahmet (Old Istanbul) is the site on which the city was founded in 666 BC. New Istanbul is across the Galata Bridge settled by Europeans in the19th century. Taxis and trams are plentiful.

DAY 5 / (19 AUG) ISTANBUL - F1 Turkey Practise
Early in the morning transfer to Kurtkoy Circuit.
Tentative event programme :
11:00 - 12:00 - F1 Practice (1st.Timed Session)
12:10 - 12:30 - Track Display. (Local Event)
13:00 - 14:00 - F1 Practice (1st.Timed Session)
14:30 - 15:00 - Local Support Race (Practice 1)
15:15 - 15:45 - Local Support Race (Practice 2)
16:00 - 16:30 - Local Support Race (Qualifying)
Return to hotel and overnight.

DAY 6 / (20 AUG) ISTANBUL - F1 Turkey Qualifying
Early in the morning transfer to Kurtkoy Circuit.
Tentative event programme :
09:00 - 09:45 - F1 Practice (2nd.Timed Session)
10:15 - 11:00 - F1 Practice (2nd.Timed Session)
11:15 - 11:40 - Track Display. (Local Event)
11:45 - 12:20 - Track Display. (Local Event)
12:30 - 12:40 - Military Air Show
13:00 - 15:00 - F1 Qualifying Session
14:30 - 15:00 - Local Support Race (Qualifying)
15:30 - 15:55 - Local Support Race (RACE)
Return to hotel and overnight.

DAY 7 / (21 AUG) ISTANBUL - F1 Turkey Grand Prix
Today is the reason you came to Turkey. Early in the morning transfer to Kurtkoy Circuit. Tentative event programme :
10:30 - 11:00 - F1 Warm-up Session
11:15 - 11:45 - Local Support Race (RACE)
12:25 - 12:35 - F1 Drivers' Parade.
12:40 - 12:50 - Opening Ceremony
12:50 - 13:45 - Track Display / Cultural Show
13:50 - 13:55 - Military Airshow
13:55 - 14:15 - Formula One Grid Line-up
14:30 - Pit Lane Open
14:45 - Pit Lane Close
15:00 - F1-TURKEY 2005
After the event, transfer hotel and overnight.

DAY 8 / (22 AUG) ISTANBUL - Departure
After breakfast transfer to Airport for final departure to home...

Tour Details

Remark:
* Rate is calculated for minimum 2 paying adults
* Rate is net and non commissionable
* Full payment for certain booking

Tour Includes:
* Round trip Airport/Hotel/Circut transfer service
* Accommodation at center located 4* hotel
* 1 Full day Byzantuim & Ottoman Relics tour including entrance fees and set menu lunch at local restaurant
* 1 Full day Bosphorus tour including Bosporus cruise and set menu lunch at loca restaurant
* Daily buffet breakfast at hotel
* 2 Set menu dinner at local restaurant
* 1 Set menu dinner + limited drink at Turkish Njght Show
* Standard entrance ticket
* English speaking guidance
* Service tax

Tour Excludes:
* Personal expenses
* Insurance of medical, accident and all personal effects
* Extras at hotel and meals
* Optional tours

3 Days F1 Tour
2 Night 3 Days
Includes saturday and sunday sessions (Qualifying, Warm-Up, Race, Shows)

Per person in double room 490 €
Single Supplement 200 €

DAY 1 / (20 AUG) ISTANBUL - F1 Turkey Qualifying
Arrive in Istanbul, meet and assist to Kurtkoy Circut
Tentative event programme :
09:00 - 09:45 - F1 Practice (2nd.Timed Session)
10:15 - 11:00 - F1 Practice (2nd.Timed Session)
11:15 - 11:40 - Track Display. (Local Event)
11:45 - 12:20 - Track Display. (Local Event)
12:30 - 12:40 - Military Air Show
13:00 - 15:00 - F1 Qualifying Session
14:30 - 15:00 - Local Support Race (Qualifying)
15:30 - 15:55 - Local Support Race (RACE)
Return to hotel and overnight.

DAY 2 / (21 AUG) ISTANBUL - F1 Turkey Grand Prix
DAY 2 Today is the reason you came to Turkey. Early n the morning transfer to Kurtkoy Circuit. Tentative event programme :
10:30 - 11:00 - F1 Warm-up Session
11:15 - 11:45 - Local Support Race (RACE)
12:25 - 12:35 - F1 Drivers' Parade.
12:40 - 12:50 - Opening Ceremony
12:50 - 13:45 - Track Display / Clutural Show
13:50 - 13:55 - Military Airshow
13:55 - 14:15 - Formula One Grid Line-up
14:30 - Pit Lane Open
14:45 - Pit Lane Close
15:00 - F1-TURKEY 2005
After the event, transfer to Airport for final departure to home...

DAY 3 / (22 AUG) ISTANBUL
After breakfast transfer to airport for final departure to home...

Tour Details

Remark:
* Rate is calculated for minimum 2 paying adults
* Rate is net and non commissionable
* Full payment for certain booking

Tour Includes:
* Round trip Airport/Hotel/Circut transfer service
* Accommodation at center located 4* hotel
* Daily buffet breakfast at hotel
* Standard entrance ticket
* English speaking guidance
* Service tax

Tour Excludes:
* Personal expenses
* Insurance of medical, accident and all personal effects
* Extras at hotel
* Optional tours

Formula 1 Turkey Istanbul GP Ticket Prices

F1 Turkey GP Tickets Friday Saturday Sunday 3 days pass
Super Gold - - - 350 €
Super Gold Junior - - - 175 €
Gold 1 100 € 140 € 290 € 320 €
Gold 1 Junior - - - 160 €
Gold 2 90 € 130 € 250 € 280 €
Gold 2 Junior - - - 140 €
Gold 3 80 € 110 € 230 € 250 €
Gold 3 Junior - - - 125 €
Silver 1 70 € 100 € 190 € 220 €
Silver 1 Junior - - - 110 €
Silver 2 60 € 90 € 170 € 200 €
Silver 2 Junior - - - 100 €
Silver 3 50 € 80 € 140 € 170 €
Silver 3 Junior - - - 85€
Bronze 1 40 € 60 € 110 € 130 €
Bronze 1 Junior - - - 65 €
Green Fields 20 € 30 € 70 € 80 €
Green Fields Junior - - - 40 €

We do not sell tickets only. Tickets are available with the hotel packages and tour packages.

Gürtour Tourism / Istanbul - Turkey

These scripts and photographs are registered under © Copyright 2006, Gürtour Tourism / Istanbul - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

SEASIDE TOURS PARAGLIDING

2006-06-20T04:11:00.000-07:00

Paragliding port is to take off by means of running from a high hill instead of plane with a parachute similar to free style jumping parachute on the first look. Parachute, which is lied on a inclined and highthill, is filled with air with the running of pilot and take off with pilot. Periods of the flights can coninue for kilometers / hours in connection with experience of the pilot and performance of the materilas used. Although it can be for single person, there is two persons ( tandem ) wings.

Paragliding , whose first trial had been made on 1940s, had been numerously modified till today, and lots of structural improvements which increase the flight period and security, had been performed. First paragliding was similar to free style diving parachute. It had turned into an aerophyl structure which has high raising power instead of its pressure enduring characteristic with changing in time. Paragliding parachute wing structure had reached to its appropriate shape for easy to take off, slowly descending ratio and good flying performance, beginning from 1980s.

Paragliding Sport in our country had been recognized with the discover by foreign pilots of Mount Baba in Fethiye, Ölüdeniz (Blue Lagoon) region at the beginning of 1990s, and actively started in university clubs initially. Being the most economical aerial vessel and being inside the natural sports, maintained it to be performed by a massive number of people today. ParaglidingParachute Sport, which does not require a special skill or much effort basically, is very easy and enjoying to do after a standard training. Paragliding training are organized by THK, university clubs and private clubs.

ÖLÜDENİZ - BABADAĞ

Location: Mount Baba, which is on the province territory of Fethiye of Muğla city, is 7 km inside from the coastal line. It rises just after the Ölüdeniz (Blue Lagoon) beach and faces just towards to south. You can reach to take off runway via a 45 minutes from Ölüdeniz stabilize but nearly smooth road.

Flight Season: Secure flights can be performed between April and October

Regional Characteristics: Ölüdeniz, which is the first place where paragliding is performed in Turkey, has a world - wide fame. Its unique nature, sun and sea is enchanting thousands of national and foreign tourists every year, and has a structure appropriate for all kinds of outdoor activity. There is no transportation, accommodation and nutrition problems within the developed touristic center, region. Yacht tours are also drawing attention in the area. Mount Baba is preferred as trekking and camping area during summer and winter.

Take Off Runways: There are a total of three runways in Mount Baba. 1700 meters high south runway is appropriate for take off. 1800 meters high north runway is a little bit small and upright. Take off area of the 1900 meters high north peek runway is very comfortable. As 1700 meters high runway is taking the south wind just from the opposite side during the most part of the day, generally take off is made from here. Approximately 20 wings can be lied on very wide runway at the same time.

Landing Runway: Belcekız beach at the coast of Ölüdeniz, is a long and very comfortable and secure landing runway with its width.

Meteorological Characteristics: During summer season, weather is stable. Sometimes during morning hours a north wind comes and take off is made from north runways into the valley. South runway faces a south wind, between 5 - 20 km. during most of the day hours.

Things that should be considered: Especially during the beginning and end of the season, climate change months weather can change rapidly and cloud can cover the take off area. On south runway, during the period till to the midday west wind coming from the west end of the mount, can create a false south wind and mislead.

MORE INFO

These scripts and photographs are registered under © Copyright 2006, Seaside Tours / Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

SEASIDE TOURS DIVING

2006-06-20T04:02:00.000-07:00

Our company organize diving trips for experienced divers and beginners everyday. The daily programme starts at 09:45 in the morning with the departure of our boat from the harbour. Then en route you will receive a briefing about the daily programme , boat and security rules. The programme also includes lunch.

At which time you can sunbathe, swim, and snorkel. You will be back at the harbour at 18:00. The daily programme offers different dive sites for experienced divers and for beginners.

DIVING SITES :

Dalyan Koyu
Depth : 15 m / 50 ft.
Class of dive : Novice to experienced
Summary of dive site : Our favourite bay and an abundance of marine life in shallow waters. It is a favourite for courses, checkouts and experienced divers alike. In this small bay live octopus, large groupers, rainbow wrasse, damselfish, fork tails, red mullets, cuttlefish, clown fish, parrotfish and cardinal fish. Most of the fish are used to our divers and will feed from your hand.

Amphora
Depth : 30 m / 100 ft.
Class of dive : Intermediate - Advanced.
Summary of dive site : One of the oldest amphora sites around this part of Turkey dates back to the Roman Period, approx. 300 B.C. The entry for both options is into 4 m / 12 ft. water and slopes very steeply down to 60 m / 200 ft. There are two big rock formations that are home to many varieties of marine life, including moray eels, crayfish, clownfish, fork tails, octopus, sea aubergine, sponges, groupers and white groupers.

Aquaria
Depth : 1 m / 3 ft.
Class of Dive : Beginners
Summary of dive site : This area is like a lagoon, which is home to some beautiful orange sponges, sandfish, damselfish, combers, red mullet, clownfish, black eyes, giant groupers and octopus. Most of the fish are used to our divers and will feed from your hand.

Şahin Burnu
Depth : 15 m / 50 ft.
Class of dive : Intermediate - experienced
Summary of dive site : This dive is performed at the depth of 9 - 12 m / 27 - 36 ft and it will gives you both great pleasure and along time underwater. You will see, touch, and play with sponges, 3000 year old amphoras, sea spiders, starfishes, octopuses, squids and many different types of fish.

Aquarium Reef
Depth : 25 m / 82 ft.
Class of Dive : Experienced
Summary of dive site : An interesting dive with some nice drop offs along the reef. At around 20 - 25 m / 60 - 75 ft. there are some nice groupers that stay in the area,also you can sea scorpion fish under the rocks. Morays are also a common sighting during the dive, especially along the reef.

Big Reef
Depth : 25 m / 82 ft.
Class of dive : Experienced
Summary of dive site : A short distance from Dalyan Key lies the start of the reef in about 10 m / 33 ft. of water. The descent takes you to explore many types of fish and marine life. The reef is a small underwater hill that drops off to 60 m / 200 ft. on the wall side. A spectacular view. Fascinating area for experience.

Cavern Drop Off
Depth : 20 m / 66 ft
Class of dive : Experienced
Summary of dive site : A great dive with some breath-taking drop offs and colours. Near the entry point of the dive there is a small cavern at 6 m / 20 ft. which is home to some beautiful coloured strawberry anemones, daisy anemones and devonshire cup coral. The most amazing drop off looks into 40 m / 155 ft. of seabed where large groupers dwell on the bottom Most probably you will end the dive on the most colourful wall in the Aegean Sea, the drama of soft corals, anemones, sea warms, sponges and schools of fish throughout.

Afkule 1
Depth :24 m / 80 ft
Class of dive : Advanced
Summary of dive site : Another fascinating dive site! First you will go down to 24m very slowly to enjoy the beautiful view then find the entrance of the shrimp's hole!!! This quite big cavern is home to red type small shrimp. After spending about 10 min. time we will ascend to 12 m. then 4 m. And make 200 m. To find the great gate of a cave which 10 divers may get into easily at the same time. The cave is so big that you need to kick your fins for about 50 m. Then you will be able to find the end of the cave. Now all you need to do is turn back and see the sunlight running into the cave! And after enjoying the view you may surface and with your torch check all the calcium status made by mother nature…

Afkule 2
Depth :10-28m / 33-93 ft
Class of dive : Advanced
Summary of dive site : Again another great wall dive for drop off lovers! While you are making this dive you will understand why we say it's great to dive in the Mediterranean! All these colours, all these creatures are only all together in Fethiye! At 28 m a small cavern full of shrimps just waiting for the quests! And then the wall continues so endlessly to final of the dive!

MORE INFO

These scripts and photographs are registered under © Copyright 2006, Seaside Tours / Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

SEASIDE TOURS JEEP SAFARI

2006-06-20T03:50:00.000-07:00

The land of lights, where the torrent of civilizations created in the time tunnel and gliding from inaccessible summits of wild Taurus Mountains meet to the foamy dark blue water of Mediterranean. Fethiye is a pretty town at the hillsides of the Mount Mendos, the part of the Tourus Mountain chains, and surrounds the bay that it has given its name to.

The high mountain range formed by rises and falls of the crust during the Tertiary Geological Period, and hundreds of bays lying at the mountainside seem to embrace each other along the Fethiye shore line.

This mountain range (it was called the Kragos and Antikragos in the antique period) with an altitude of more than 6560 feet (2000m.) forms the southwest end of the Toros (Taurus) chain and lies parallel to the shore without a single passage to the inner regions.

On a warm and sunny winter day, peculiar to the Mediterranean climate while you are sipping at your Turkish tea or Turkish coffee, at one of the local tea gardens, along the coast, these mountains with pine trees at their skirts, white snow and mist on their summits will once more welcome you to heaven.

MORE INFO

These scripts and photographs are registered under © Copyright 2006, Seaside Tours / Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

SEASIDE TOURS RAFTING

2006-06-18T01:07:00.000-07:00

Turkey, with its rich natural resources and hundreds of rivers, provides great opportunities for water sports like rafting, canoeing and water-skiing, while always respecting the cultural, historical and environmental qualities of the country.

The most famous is the River Çoruh, renowned internationally as one of the fastest flowing in the world, and venue of the 4th World Watersports Championships in 1993 which saw 300 competitors from 28 countries.

The Dalaman River, whose ancient name was Indos, begins in the Kocas Mountain near Dirmil and lies between Marmaris and Fethiye.

The total length of the river is 229 km. Increased by branches from the Göktepe and Yaylacık Mountains of West Toros (Taurus), it flows through a narrow and deep valley and reaches the sea 8 km south of Ortaca.

As the river is fed with the natural limestone, the turquoise-blue water is always clear and warm. The Dalaman is near the popular areas of the Mediterranean and Aegean, so it attracts local and foreign tourists and rafting is possible throughout the year.

For accommodation, there are many guest-houses in Akköprü village.

Course

The rafting points can be easily reached from Marmaris, Dalyan, Fethiye and Turunç and from Dalaman airport. The water level of the river, in which rafting is possible throughout the year, rises the most in September and October.

As flowing water forms small falls, there are passes among the course, which divert the river into two separate branches over the Akköprü village.

The upper branch is class 5 and the lower is class 3 - 4. Once reaching Akköprü, the flow rate of the river increases and class becomes higher.

DEEP NATURE RAFTING

2006-06-13T04:30:00.000-07:00

Deep Nature provide custom made multiactivity tours and rafting tour packages. Best daily and two days rafting course in turkey, Dalaman river's fun rapids running around the boulders, drops and waves, best gear, best guides, best food. Enjoy!

RAFTING TOUR ON THE DALAMAN - 3 DAYS
The Dalaman is the best river in Southern Turkey for rafting with genuine exhilarating grade four rapids. Rafting on the Dalaman River and Canyoning On the Butterfly Valley

Day 1
Arrive in Akkopru Camping Place for breakfast. Transfer to start point, receiving the equipment and briefing. Brief course about rafting and then rafting on the Narlı - Meşebükü (12 km, difficulty rate 4) snack on the river. After rafting you'll have camping and dinner

Day 2
After having breakfast at the camping place you'll raft Meşebükü - Akköprü (14 km, difficulty rate 3 - 4). After rafting lunch break. Transfer to Faralya Village, the start point of canyoning. Dinner and overnight in hotel

Day 3
Breakfast at the hotel. Training about the canyoning and canyoning. End of the canyoning and Ölüdeniz by boat. Transfer for hotel.

Number of participants: Min : 6 - Max : 15

We provide : Transfers, overnight at the hotel, snack, all river equipment, breakfast and dinner at the capmpin place, professional experienced river guides, insurance

You Bring : Swimming suits / short, sport shoes (can get wet), sun glasses, sun cream

Who Can Attend : Everybody between the ages of 14 - 50 who hasn't got any serious illness and who know how to swim

RAFTING ON THE DALAMAN RIVER AND CANYONING ON THE BUTTERFLY VALLEY - 2 DAYS

Day 1
Arrive in Akköprü Camping Place for breakfast. Transfer to start point, receiving the equipment and briefing. Brief course about rafting and then rafting (14 km, difficulty rate 3 – 4), snack on the river. End of the rafting. Transfer to Faralya Village , the start point of canyoning. Dinner and overnight at the pension.

Day 2
Breakfast at the pension. Training about the canyoning and canyoning. End of the canyoning and Ölüdeniz by boat. Transfer for home

Number of participants : Min : 6 - Max : 15

We provide : Transfers, overnight at the hotel, snack, all river equipment, breakfast and dinner at the capmpin place, professional experienced river guides, insurance
You Bring : Swimming suits / short, sport shoes (can get wet), sun glasses, sun cream.

Who Can Attend : Everybody between the ages of 14 - 50 who hasn't got any serious illness and who know how to swim

RAFTING ON DALAMAN RIVER ( NARLI-AKKÖPRÜ ) - 2 DAYS

Day 1
Arrive in the main capmping place and breakfast. Transfer to Narlı ,the start point of rafting. Brief course about rafting. Rafting on the Narlı - Meşebükü (12 km, difficulty rate 4). Nightover at the river coast that Meşebükü.

Day 2
Breakfast at the camping place. Rafting on the Meşebükü-Akköprü (14 km, difficulty rate 3 – 4). End of the rafting then snack in the Akköprü. Transfer for home

Number of participants : Min : 6 - Max : 35

We provide : Transfers, overnight at the hotel, snack, all river equipment, breakfast and dinner at the camping place, professional experienced river guides, insurance
You Bring : Swimming suits / short, sport shoes (can get wet), sun glasses, sun cream.

Who Can Attend : Everybody between the ages of 14 - 50 who hasn't got any serious illness and who know how to swim

MORE INFO

These scripts and photographs are registered under © Copyright 2006, Deep Nature / Istanbul - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

MY TURKEY TOURS 2006 FORMULA 1

2006-05-26T13:36:00.000-07:00

2nd Formula 1 Grand Prix in 2006

Turkey holds its 2nd Formula 1 Grand Prix in 2006. The spectacular 5.378 kilometer track is designed by famed German architect Herman Tilke, the man behind Sepang, Bahrain and Shanghai, and features 14 turns – eight lefts and six rights – with the cars reaching speeds of up to 320 km.

The Istanbul Racing Circuit is located on the Asian side of Istanbul, approximately 90 km from the city center. An unusual feature of the venue is that the lap will run anticlockwise, making the Turkish Grand Prix only the third race on the calendar to do so (San Marino and Brazil are the other two).

It possesses a wide variety of corners, and while perhaps not as technical as, say, Shanghai, it definitely provides the drivers with real challenge, especially given the reduced down force available.

The character of the circuit is further enhanced by plenty of gradients - the track is built on four different ground levels. There look to be fewer obvious overtaking opportunities than at some other Tilke circuits - it doesn’t feature the long straights followed by tight hairpins that characterize the likes of Sepang and Shanghai – but the drivers found plenty of their own once they got used to the track.

As you’d expect from a new venue, spectator facilities are impressive. Seating capacity is 155,000, with 25,000 of those in the main grandstand, and parking for 20,000 cars.

5 day program
Duration : 5 days / 4 nights
Dates : Begins 24th August and ends 28th August

Guided Tours : Istanbul city tour and Bosphorus cruise

8 day program
Duration : 8 days / 7 nights
Dates : Begins 25th August and ends 1st September
Guided Tours : Istanbul city tour, Traditional Turkish Night and Bosporous Cruise

Limited Seats Available !!!

2006 Formula 1 Turkish Grand Prix Timetable

Friday 25 August 11:00-12:00 Friday Practice 1
14:00-15:00 Friday Practice 2

Saturday 26 August 11:00-12:00 Saturday Practice 1
14:00 Saturday Qualifying
Sunday 27 August 15:00 Race

MORE INFO

These scripts and photographs are registered under © Copyright 2006, My Turkey Tours / Istanbul - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

TERRA-ANATOLIA MOUNTAIN TOURS

2006-05-26T13:04:00.000-07:00

Walking Tours of Turkey
Lycia Cradle of coastal navigation, the coastal region of ancient Pamphyliea and Lycia, is the most beautiful part of the southern Turkey..
The Lycia Discovery (Lycian Way) - 15 Days
The Lycian Turquoise Coast - 15 Days

Mt.Ararat
The highest mountain of Turkey, legendary Mt. Ararat, is one of the best-known of all mountains because of its biblical attribution..
Legendary Mt Ararat - 8 Days
Mt Kaçkar & Mt Ararat Climb - 15 Days

Cappadocia
Follow the paths of the first human beings in caves and underground cities in the hidden valleys of Cappadocia..
Cappadocia Trekking- 8 Days
From Cappadocia to Istanbul - 9 Days
Cappadocia & Bolkar Mountains -15 Days

Mt.Taurus
An adventurous experience through the stunningly beautiful Taurus Mountains, which is the heaven of mountaineers..
Cappadocia - Mt Taurus trekking - 15 Days

Mt.Kaçkar
The wildest part of northeastern Turkey, Kackar Mountains are known for the complexity and power of the streams and rivers which rush down to the lower altitudes..
Mt Kaçkar trekking - 15 Days

Mountains of Turkey
A glance at a topographical map of Turkey reveals that this is a country of mountains. Rising from all four directions, mountains encircle the peninsula of Anatolia. A part of the Alpine-Himalayan Mountain range, Turkey has mountainous regions with different geological formations. The North Anatolian range skirts the Mediterranean shore. Turkey's magnificent mountains and forests are mostly undeveloped, existing as wonderful natural preserves for an extraordinary variety of wild life, flora and fauna.

Two of Turkey's most famous peaks are volcanoes, both inactive, Mt. Erciyes in Kayseri in Central Anatolia (3917 m) and Mt. Ağrı (mt. Ararat 5137 m) in the east. Other mountain ranges are the Rize Kaçkar (3932 m) in the eastern Black Sea region, Niğde Aladağ; (3756 m) in the central Taurus range and the Cilo and Sat mountains (4136 m) near Hakkari in the eastern Taurus.

The mountainous nature of the country has influenced its cultural evolution. For centuries, nomads and semi-nomadic peoples have moved yearly to the fresh pastures of the higher elevations in the summer. These alpine meadows, called yayla, house nomadic people whose traditional culture is still preserved.

For climbers and those interested in the geography of mountains, Turkey offers a wealth of exploration. Glaciers, volcanoes, and peculiar geological formations such as karst prove irresistible to researchers and students of the geology. The challenging terrain offers opportunities to aficionados of outdoor sports, who will find the most interesting experiences on the mountains of eastern, central and southern Turkey.

The Great Mount of Ağrı (Ararat) 5137m
Rising at the borders of Turkey and Iran, Mount Ağrı, an inactive volcano capped year round with ice and snow, rises to 5137 meters. The Old Testament records that it was on this mountain that Noah's Ark came to rest after the great flood.

Southwest of the mountain, the Little Mount Ağrı (Ararat) reaches up to 3896 meters; the Serdarbulak lava plateau (2600 m) stretches out between the two pinnacles. Climbing the spectacular Agrı is a challenging and rewarding experience.

In the summer, the weather in the area and on Mount Agrı( Mt. Ararat) is sunny, warm and dry. However, in the winter and spring, cold and harsh conditions prevail, and mountain climbers occasionally face blizzards and turbulent weather. July, August, and September are the months when most world mountain climbers come to this area.

Climbing up Mt Ararat is most enjoyable during this period. However, despite the usual sunny and clear weather at that time of year, high altitude mountain weather swirls around above 3000 meters. The southern side of the mountain offers the easiest and safest climb to the summit. With this route one has access to the best route communication and transportation facilities and it is safe. It is not recommended to climb Mount Ararat alone and without a guide.

The Cilo-Sat Mountain Range (4136m.)
The Cilo-Sat mountains, within the southeastern Hakkari province are the eastern extension of the Toros (Taurus) mountain chain which stretches from west to east along Turkey's southern boundaries. The mountain range forms the western section of the Himalayan mountain belt. At 4136 meters, the Uludoruk (Resko) summit is the highest in the Cilo mountains; Çatalkaya (Samdi), which rises to 3794 meters which crowns the Sat mountains.

Resembling the Alps both in general appearance and glacier topography, the Cilo-Sat mountains are the areas in Turkey most affected by glaciers. The high altitudes of the mountains testify to the effects of glacial formation and water erosion. Of the ten differently shaped glaciers, the largest, Izbirak, measures five kilometres in length, 500-600 meters in width. It reaches up to 100 meters in depth.

A wide arid expanse stretches across the southern base of the mountain range. The highlands, in contrast, receive plentiful precipitation during the winter months. In between crests and summits, fertile green valleys dotted with rural settlements, enjoy a temperate climate that makes them ideal for wine and fruit agriculture. Above the low valleys, alpine meadows blanket the mountain slopes at altitudes between 2000 and 3100 meters. Herds of domestic animals graze on these pastures, the raising of which makes up the primary economic activity of the region.

The Kaçkar Mountains (3932 m.)
In the rainy and lush landscapes of northeastern Turkey, the Kaçkar mountains form the northern section of the Anatolian mountain chain. The Kaçkar-Kavron summit, at an altitude of 3932 meters, is the highest point in the range. Extensive glacier and water erosion have given these mountains their craggy, rugged look, and they are known for the complexity and power of the streams and rivers which rush down to the lower altitudes. In fact, this range is the third most important glacial region in Turkey following the Ağrı (Ararat) and Cilo-Sat mountains. The geological and mountaineering aspects of the Kaçkars contribute to their importance in Turkey's economy and tourism.

This region enjoys an almost sub-tropical climate of temperate, yet rainy weather with an average temperature of 14° C. The lowest temperature, 7° C, falls in the month of January while August sees the hottest days reaching a maximum recorded temperature of 22.6° C.
The Kaçkars rise in between the shores of the Black Sea to the north and the River Coruh valley to the south. On the northern flank, a good variety of vegetation flourishes in the rainy climate. Up to 500 meters above sea level, tea plantations and citrus orchards cover the hillsides.

Chesnuts, hornbeam, beech and other large-leafed trees which forest the slopes to 750 meters. Between 750-1500 meters of elevation, pines mix in with the large - leafed trees forest the slopes to 750 meters. Between 750-1500 meters of elevation, pines mix in with the large leafed trees until gradually they remain the only species of tree from 1500-2000 meters. Alpine meadows and other grassy vegetation cover the ground above 2100 meters. On the southern faces of the Kackars, which receive strong sunshine and less precipitation, the agriculture is based on the cultivation of fruits and vines. As on the north side in the higher elevations, meadows of wild flowers and grass blanket the slopes up to 2300 meters.

The Toros (Taurus) Mountains and the Toros Aladağlar Mountains
The Taurus Mountains are the western most branch of the great mountain chain that stretches across all of Asia - the Himalayan mountain belt.

The Turkish section of this massive mountain range follows the southern border of Anatolia and it is made up of four major sections, the Western, Central, Southern and Southeastern Toros ranges. The highest peaks rises out of the Central and Southeastern branches, a stretch of mountains which are rugged, magnificent and arduous to climb.

Forming part of the Central Taurus range, the Aladaglar range runs from the southwest to the northeast for approximately 50 kilometers. It is between 25 and 30 kilometers wide and boasts the region's highest peak, Demirkazik which stretches to 3756 meters.

Other high summits include Kızılkaya in the center (3725 m), a peak that reaches 3688 meters in the south and Mount Vayvay in the East (3565m).

The long range is situated in the provinces of Niğde and Adana and rises between Lake Ecemiş and the Zamantı River.

The geological formation of the area is responsible for the interesting rock formations and waterfalls. The erosion of limestone has created a fascinating karstic topography and hydrography, especially in the Yedigoller valley, where karstic underground rivers and caverns collect the surface water.

Both the Mediterranean and Anatolian weather systems influence the climate of the Aladağlar bringing warm summers and cool winters to the mountains.

Walking Tours of Turkey
Lycia Cradle of coastal navigation, the coastal region of ancient Pamphyliea and Lycia, is the most beautiful part of the southern Turkey..
The Lycia Discovery (Lycian Way) - 15 Days
The Lycian Turquoise Coast - 15 Days

Mt.Ararat
The highest mountain of Turkey, legendary Mt. Ararat, is one of the best-known of all mountains because of its biblical attribution..
Legendary Mt Ararat - 8 Days
Mt Kaçkar & Mt Ararat Climb - 15 Days

Cappadocia
Follow the paths of the first human beings in caves and underground cities in the hidden valleys of Cappadocia..
Cappadocia Trekking- 8 Days
From Cappadocia to Istanbul - 9 Days
Cappadocia & Bolkar Mountains -15 Days

Mt.Taurus
An adventurous experience through the stunningly beautiful Taurus Mountains, which is the heaven of mountaineers..
Cappadocia - Mt Taurus trekking - 15 Days

Mt.Kaçkar
The wildest part of northeastern Turkey, Kackar Mountains are known for the complexity and power of the streams and rivers which rush down to the lower altitudes..
Mt Kaçkar trekking - 15 Days

ARCHALLA TRAVEL TREKKING

2006-05-26T12:57:00.000-07:00

Trekking Expert was started 1982 and registered by Turkish Tourism Department. Over the years Trekking Expert has emerged as a leading tour operator in Mt Ararat. Our dedication, special tour itinerary, authentic information, quality equipments and professional staff have enabled us to provide quality service that has been well appreciated by our clients over the years.

We personally survey the trekking and other destination before we organize tour to the area. All the itineraries are designed according to clients' choice and services are arranged according to your budget. We have full knowledge of all the trips and services either it is luxury or budget tours.

23 years of experience in trekking, mountaineering, cultural, Eco and Special interest Tours gives us capacity to handle Group and FIT trek and tours to Mt Ararat, Kaçkar Mountains, Cappadocia, Aladağlar and other parts of Turkey.

Mt. Ararat Climbing
Mountain Trekking and Alpine Tour Ski
Taurus Mountains Trek (Aladağlar)
Kaçkar Mountains Trek ( Black Sea)
Olympus Mountains Trek (Antalya)

Program
- Ararat Individual (from/to Doğubeyazit) - 5 DAYS
- Kaçkar Mountains Trek (from/to Istanbul) - 12 DAYS
- Taurus Mountain Trek (Cappadocia & Aladag Range) - 14 DAYS
- Erciyes & Aladağ Mountain Trek (from/to Kayseri) - 10 DAYS
- Olympos Mountains Trek (from/to Antalya) - 9 DAYS
- Ballooning in Mt. Erciyes - SPECIAL INTEREST PROGRAM
- Trekking in Cappadocia - 8 DAYS

MORE INFO

These scripts and photographs are registered under © Copyright 2006, Archalla Travel / Ürgüp - Nevşehir - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

EL BABA TREKKING

2006-05-26T12:49:00.000-07:00

Would you like to see a bewitching natural environment at its wild best? How about sightseing wild animals, abundant flora, forests, the Munzur Mountains. Munzur Valleys, Munzur Rivers and lakes, waterfalls, recreational sites and varieties of flowers? Would you also like to have a holiday which fills all 7 days of your week with various tours and sports activities?

Is your answer yes? Then we will be honoured to have you stay with us at the Elbaba Tourist Resort. You can action, adventure and fun at the Elbaba Tourist Resort.

TREKKING (For those who like to go on long rambles amidst unspoilt nature)

Stage 1 - The Kırkmerdiven Plateau and waterfalls
The tour beings early in the morning. A 20 km car drive is taken from the Elbaba Camping resort to the Elbaba Village. From here, those who wish to horseride can do so and others can carry on walking with horses. The Elbaba Village is 5 km away from Kırkmerdiven. Kırkmerdiven is small valley leading down into the depths of the Munzur Mountains. Kırkmerdiven is also the blank of the waterfalls. It is famous for its 4 large waterfalls. The single cloved wild garlic grows here. You can also come across bears, pheasants and mountain goats. You can picnic here in the afternoon and return to the resort in the evening.

Stage 2 - The Kepir Plateau
At a height of 3400 metres and at the peak of the mountains, the kepir Plateau can be walked in 6-8 hours. One night or, if desired, two nights can be spent on the plateau. There are 6 crater mountain lakes on the Kepir plateau.

There is a dungeon and caves. It has a high level of oxygen, many varieties of flowers, white mushrooms and you may be able to come across wild animals. Each summer, people from the Ovacık Village come to this plateau with their animals and camp here for 3 months.

Stage 3 - The Mercan Valley (On the Erzincan - Tunceli province boundary)
From the Elbaba resort a 40 minute car journey and an hours walk will take you to the source of the Mercan water and its lakes. The abundant flora-fauna is breathtaking. Like the Munzur River, the Mercan Stream is also renowned for its trout. Here you can also find walnuts and wild pears and it is also famous for the Munzur Honey. During the afternoon you can have a picnic and then continue with the trip. Return to the camp is in the evening. The Mercan Valley, which is created out of the skirts of the Munzur Mountain, is 50 km. the Mercan Valley and its stream joins with the Munzur River.

Stage 4 - The Munzur Valley
The valley begins in Ovacik and joins with the Pülümür Valley in the city of Tunceli. The Munzur water flows all along the valley lenght and has the world-famous red-stopped trout. The valley is 59 km in length with mountains and forests. There is a main road from Tunceli to Ovacık.

The valley has a wealthy assortment of flora and many types of wild animals. Ovacık also has trout farming facilities. The Peri Valley, Pülümür Valley, the Havachur Valley and the Ormanyolu Stream Valley is also located in Tunceli.

Stage 5 - The Springs (The Starting site of the Munzur Water)
About 40 springs which are found one beside each other along a distance of 300 metres from a very strong river. Picnicking is possible and the surounding villages are introduced. Short mountain climbing trips can be taken and return to the camp resort is in the evening. The springs are also a recreational ground area.

Stage 6 - Hot Springs and Spas
The Bagin Spa : It is located within the town of Mazgirt's Dedebag Village boundaries. The spa's water temperature is 39 C.
The Harik Spa : In the district of Nazmiye. The spa's water temperature 39 C. Large numbers of visitors come here for health reasons.
There are also the Harchik and Anafatma hot springs.

Stage 7 - The Munzur Mountains
The Munzur Mountains are the first range of mountains formed in Anatolia around 5 million years ago. It has height of 3420 m. and is richly abundant in flora-fauna. Amongst the many varieties you can also find healt-promoting garlic, sprouts, white mushrooms, herbal tea varieties, inverted tulips, and crater lakes at the peak. There is snow at the peak 12 months of the year. It is also home to wild animals and birds.

ELBABA CAMPING FACILITIES
Our facilities have a capacity of 100 beds.
There are Tents and Barrack type rooms.
Our tents accommodate up to 2 to 4 persons.
Our rooms accommodate up to 6 to 8 persons.
The beds, covers and pillows used in the tents and rooms are of the best quality.
If desired, your room or tent will be cleaned daily and any laundry taken care of by our cleaning staff.
We have hot water available 24 hours.
Our kitchen and restaurant is fully equipped to be at your service.
Our menu is presented to you on a weekly basis. Any special food requests are met.
Local dishes are prepared to you on a weekly basis. Any special food requests are meet.
Local dishes are prepared for you to enjoy.
A bonfire is made during the evenings, around which you can have many enjoyable evenings of live music and local dances.
Our facilities have a substructure (Electricity, water, and sewerage) system.
The showers, toilets and kitchen are completely tiled.
Our facilities hold cleanliness and hygiene as as its main priority.

MORE INFO

These scripts and photographs are registered under © Copyright 2006, Elbaba Tourist Resort / Ovacık - Tunceli - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

OZKAN SAHIN RAFTING

2006-05-26T12:45:00.000-07:00

The Çoruh rises at around 3000 m. and flows for about 650 km. through the Kaçkar Mountains to the Black sea. The first third of this journey is fairly flat water; of no interest to the white water paddler. But what does concern the paddler is that the water is used for irrigation; the water flows out over level fields and soaks up the sun warms it up and some flows back into the river - That's right warm white water!

Between the towns of Bayburt and Ispir the river swings through 180 degrees and enters a gorge. This is where we and the fun starts and the next 160 kms provide some of the best white water available. The longest flat stretch is 8 km, the rapids vary from class five classics to excellent playground grade threes. Also almost without exception the river gets progressively harder - so you have time to "acclimatise" to the river.

The Çoruh offers a unique mix of white water, scenery, culture and local distractions that you could easily spend a month in the area and not get bored. This gives you time to play the rapids and explore the side valleys as well as paddle some of the tributaries and scare yourself as much as you want on the steep creeks that flow straight into the Black Sea.

If you are a grade V paddler you will love this river. If you are a good Grade V paddler go early; not only is the Çoruh high and powerful but all the side creeks are running as well. If you feel happy on Grade IV then by the end of June the river will have dropped and the power subsided and the fun starts. Grade III paddlers will find that by the end of July the river is manageable though still testing at times.

One of the biggest draws to the Coruh is the climate; not only is the sun shinning but the water is warm, almost tepid! This makes a huge difference to enjoyment and confidence; you stop playing a hole from exhaustion, not hypothermia! However, if you feel you may not make the grade do not worry because :

1) The river starts easy and gets progressively harder. This gives you a chance to warm up and get those rusty reactions up to speed.
2) The water is warm so your head does not freeze when you capsize. No ice cream head!!!
3) There is an endless variety of rapids to play on for all standards of paddlers.

THE ÇORUH (Turkey) Section : Bayburt to Artvin
Difficulty : V+ in high water
Season : May to August.
Length : Bayburt - Ispir 100 km class II
Ispir - Yusufeli 95 km class V
Yusufeli - Artvin 70 km class V

MORE INFO

These scripts and photographs are registered under © Copyright 2006, Özkan Şahin / Yusufeli - Artvin - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

OZKAN SAHIN TREKKING

2006-05-26T12:26:00.000-07:00

Hi Adventurer !
My name is Özkan ŞAHİN and I am "Trekking Guide" in north east Turkey. I was born in Yusufeli near Artvin. Yusufeli is a famous place for Trekking because from this place you can climb the 3rd highest mountain Turkeys who called Kaçkar (3937m). Of course is the Çoruh River and Canyon famous too. If you are a group or a family I can organize climb to Kaçkar and nearest region.

Kaçkar
Mountain range in Black Sea region rises to its peak from the shore to Kaçkar at 3937 metres . Because of the corrosion in Ice Age which also continues today, north side of mountain Kaçkar is steeper than the south side. It is very possible to see every tone of green from the shore to the top of the mountains in Rize which has a very rainy climate.

Rize is the land of beauties with its magnificent mountains, waterfalls, clear lakes and plant cover.

Geological structure and land shapes of Kaçkar Mountain attract attention and are very important for mountaineering. All these hard conditions affect the cultural structure of Rize and forms a great richness with festivals and unique civilian architecture. You will see the greatness of the mountains with colorful flowers scattered on them. You will see the dance of fog with mountains.

The best place to experience the magnificent sunrise and sunset is Kaçkar. The sunset that will fascinate you to your dreams. Discovery is going on, come and join this enthusiasm.

Routes
1 st day- Sunday : Meeting at Trabzon Airport and departure to Hevek Plateau, Artvin (1850 m). We stop over for lunch and swim at a trout farm. Moreover, we visit the Barhal Gürcü Church which is on our way. After setting up the camp, you can go for a walk in the neighborhood.

2 nd day- Monday : After breakfast, we pack up the camp and load our rucksacks on the mules. Our walk lasts in about 4 hours. Our first break is at the Olgunlar Plateau (2200 m). As we go up to the Nastaf Plateau (2400 m), you will notice the changes in terms of the architecture and the material used in construction. About an hour later, we'll stop over for lunch.

After lunch, we will arrive at Dilberdüzü (2900 m), where we will accommodate for two nights. After setting up the camp, we rest for acclimation. Please listen to your guide carefully when the information about the peak climb is being given. You will then profit from this information.

3 rd day - Tuesday : Early in the morning, we have our breakfast and at 6 am we depart for the peak climb. With a tempo, which is neither fast nor slow, and with frequent but short breaks we will proceed for the peak climb. The peak climb isn't obligatory. You may stay at the camp or at Deniz Lake (3335 m) after our first long break, you may return to the camp with the second guide. The Deniz Lake is the world's second highest lake. The passageway, at which we will arrive an hour later, is the last point to return to the camp. Here the second guide returns to the camp with the ones who will not be able to join the peak climb.

Between 11-11.30 am, we arrive at the Kaçkar peak at 3937 m. Below, you will see the unforgettable view with the sea, hills, valleys, plateaus, lakes observed between the clouds. We will be able to watch this alluring view only for one hour. After signing the peak notebook and having lunch, we depart for the camp. At about 5 pm, we will be at the camp.

4th day - Wednesday : Today we carry on with the aim of the whole tour, the trans. After the camp is packed up and the bags are loaded on the mules, we depart to cross Mountain Kaçkar from south to north. After coming back to the Olgunlar Plateau, we depart for the transition point Naletleme Trans (3200 m). Before the transition, we first stop over at the Dope Plateau (2550 m) and an hour later we have our lunch at the side of the Naletleme Trans.

The Karadeniz Lake (2850 m) is located at the point, where we end up with the transition, and this point is our 3 rd camp. After setting up the camp, we may swim in the freezing lake with the ones who are courageous enough. We assure you that it will take away all your tiredness. Since the tough part of the tour is over, now it's time to have fun with the jogs and songs around the campfire.

MORE INFO

These scripts and photographs are registered under © Copyright 2006, Özkan Şahin / Yusufeli - Artvin - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

ATLANTIS SCUBA DIVING CENTRE

2006-05-21T14:30:00.000-07:00

Our Diving Base
Atlantis Diving Center is a newly opened diving facility established in 2002 in Kemer and Side and allready has an excellent reputation to be one of the best and the most professional Scuba facilities in this region. This is the through result of our vision and philosophy insisting on the safety and the high quality of service with our modern diving equipment under the supervision of qualified and friendly instructors speaking English, German, French, Russian, Dutch and Turkish.

Divers also enjoy the diverse range of diving activities that Atlantis Diving offers;such as many local, easily accessible shore and boat dives, cave dives, wreck dives, wall dives, reef dives and many other speciality dives. As typical for Mediterranean Sea, beside spongs, lobsters, large octopuses and cuttlefish you can also see barracudas, tunafish, skates morayes and also many pieces of Amphorae.

An ıntroduction dive to get acquainted with the underwater world is always a possibility and you can even continue with the diving education and become a certified diver of an international organization such as NAUI, PADI or CMAS. Having a nice boat and snorkel trip with Atlantis-M is also available for parents and children on request and enjoy the calm, crystal clear water, bright sky and the shining sun. To offer the best of both sides of the Mediterranean Sea, Atlantis has also partnered with a leader Company in Yachting in Kemer.

As Atlantis Diving Center,we are fully licensed and certified, complaying with all Turkish and International safety regulations. When you take a dive trip on the Atlantis, you are in for a treat! One of the most spacious and comfortable boats in this area; Atlantis-M makes your trip to and from the dive site quite enjoyable.

21 m. in length and 6 m.in breadth wooden Diving Boat Atlantis-M covers 3 different zones on deck :
Divers zone,with its large sturdy dive platform and wide Divers area surrounded with bottles and seats where you can easily prepare yourself for an exciting dive! Non-Divers zone is second half of the first floor surrounded with the leather couches situated in a large area where you can sit and relax in the shadow.

A bar and a kitchen on the corner to surve cool drinks and the delicious food and 2 WC & Freshwater-Shower are also available. The huge second floor with plenty of room to lie and relax and get some sun during the surface interval: even up on the bow! The view from the bridge is even a lot better and anybody is welcome to be taken a nice picture with the Captain at the helm.

COURSES
General
Atlantis Diving Center as a diver friendly and professional operation in Kemer offers various courses leading to the internationally recognised PADI, NAUI and CMAS qualifications.
Instruction from highly qualified instructors is available in different languages such as English, German, French, Dutch, Russian and Turkish.
Courses are available from a beginners-through to the instructor level.
Our goal is to support a Fun ,Friendly,Comfortable atmosphere in which our students can learn.

Who can Dive?
With today's educational systems,anybody can dive. Even if you are not certified, Atlantis Diving Center lets you dive and discover the underwater world in "ONE DAY"! To learn "Scuba Diving"on your vocation with us is a very enjoyable and unforgettable experience. Before entering the water a through instruction is given with regard to scuba diving theory, behaviour under water, safety and preservation of the reef.
Virtually anyone who is in good health, reasonably fit and comfortable in the water can dive!

Bublemaker Program
This program is for kids from the age of 8.and this is an introduction to the thrill of breathing underwater. If you are 8 or 9 years of age, now is your time to go and swim underwater! Diving with special equipment and special care!...

Discover Scuba Diving
Move at your own pace! This is a pre-entry level certification program at “Atlantis Diving”, that is perfect for holiday divers or people who only plan to dive a couple of times a year. Your first dive in the sea with lots of fish, feel the lightness of being underwater and chance to become a part of it, with the supervisions of your instructor in ideal conditions. Max.depth is 12 m/40 feet.

This introductory course will enable you to dive safely under professional quidance on our beautiful reefs with no provious diving experience. Course includes instruction, two dives and equipment.

Prerequisite: Ability to swim and feeling comfortable in the water.
Duration : One hour
Open Water Diver (PADI/NAUI)

The entrance course
A course requiring the completion of 5 knowledge development sessions, 5 confined water sessions, and 4 open water training dives.
Throughout the course,you’ll learn fundementals of scuba diving,including the equipment and techniques.The practical lesson start off in the confined waters where you’ll master all the basic diving skills in a safe and controlled environment. Upon successful completion of this course, you receive a certification card that is recognized worldwide and are eligible to dive to a maximum depth of 18 metres. If you are between 10 and 14 or have a child between these ages, there is Junior Open Water program available.

Prerequisite : Ability to swim and feeling comfortable in the water.
Duration : 3 days
Advanced Open Water Diver(PADI/NAUI)
This program fine tunes your dive skills and allows you to explore some of diving’s top adventures. The highest priority is given to practical experience diving in various special areas such as Underwater Navigation,Deep Diving,Night Diving,Wreck Diving,Underwater Photography.
After your five dives, you’ll be more experienced,feel more comfortable in water and simply enjoy diving more because you better understand the underwater environment.

Prerequisite : Open Water Diver
Duration : 2-3 days
Medic First Aid
You do not even need to be a diver for this course! This one day First Aid and CPR course can easily be intedrated into a Rescue Course.
This course prepares you to properly handle potentially life-threatening situations. A course requiring 7 knowledge development sessions, including watching the Medic First Aid video and practicing on a mannequin. Upon successful completion of this course, you receive a certification card and are able to give proper first aid when needed.

Prerequisite : none
Duration : 1 day
Rescue Diver
A course requiring the completion of 5 knowledge development sessions and 12 exercises conducted over 5 open water dives. This course entails Serious Fun, you’ll learn everything you need to know about handling diving emergencies. Rescue Diver Course focuses on minor problem recognition and prevention,as well as handling worst-case scenarios. Upon successful completion of this course,you receive a certification card and are able to effectively perform diver rescues and assists ,manage diving-accident situations, render proper first aid and qualify for Divemaster training.

Prerequisite : Advanced Open Water Diver, Medic First Aid, and logged at least 20 dives.
Duration : 3 days
Divemaster
This is your first step into the leadership world of diving and your last prerequest before instructor training.
A course requiring the completion of a Watermanship and Skill Assessment in confined water, 8 knowledge development sessions, and practical application in open water enabling the candidate to put into practice his knowledge on how to plan, manage and control diving activities. Upon successful completion of this course, you receive a certification card and are able to oversee general diving activities, serve as an underwater guide and act as an instructional assistant.

Prerequisite : Rescue Diver, minimum age 18 years, and logged at least 60 open water dives.
Duration : Minimum of 10 days.
Specialty Courses
Specialty training is FUN and Easy! No long classroom sessions and No Exams! Each course consists of 2 or 4 dives over 1 to 3 days.

Boat Diver, Deep Diver, Drift Diver, Night Diver, Wreck Diver, Search and Recovery, Underwater Naturalist, Underwater Navigator, Underwater Photographer, Underwater Videographer

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These scripts and photographs are registered under © Copyright 2006, Atlantis Dive Center / Kemer - Antalya - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

AQUA AGE SCUBA DIVING CENTRE

2006-05-21T14:18:00.000-07:00

We are pleased to introduce you scuba diving in Turkish Riviera. During your visit with us you will enjoy the Mediterranean’s warm crystal clear waters and be amazed by the fascinating marine life with the breathtaking natural and historical beauty above. Please just relax and enjoy the fabulous sport of scuba diving with our total expertise in scuba diving services and our stringent standarts on international rules. With Aqua Age while having “fun” live the absolute need “safety”, “comfort” and “perfection” in travel services.

Aqua Age Diving Center is a PADI Dive Center having two branches in Kemer and Side. We’re organizing daily diving trips for the beginners and qualified divers and giving all levels of PADI and CMAS courses.

In the high season we have as many as 5 large dive boats and over 50 multilingual staff handling more than 10,000 customers annually.
Established 1998
Location Kemer - side / Antalya / Turkey
Service Area Tekirova - Alanya
Season April - October
Boats Custom built dive boats with changing rooms, sundecks, wc, on board oxygen & first aid kits, rescue boat.
Insurance Insured by Anadolu Sigorta & DAN Europe
Dive services Daily diving tours, courses, private diving tours
Languages spoken English, Russian, German, French, Turkish

DISCOVER SCUBA 1 day, 2 dives (max. 6 m, 25 min) fun, safety and excitement. You have always wanted to discover diving before. In a very friendly environment you will have a short theoretical lesson on boat. With internationally recognized PADI Discover Scuba Program you will join the under-water world together with your instructor. You will hand-feed fish, stroke octopus and explore for yourself the majestic underwater world. Every healthy person 08-65 ages can attend this program without any international certificate.

BUBLEMAKER FOR KIDS 1 day, 2 dives Kids - Bring your parents diving! For young adventurers like you, the Bublemaker program is an introduction to the thrill of breathing underwater. If you’re 8 or 9 years of age, now is your chance to take the plunge with a PADI instructor and go diving.

CERTIFIED DIVERS 1 day, 2 dives There are plenty of dive sites situated around the nearby islands and along the coast line. You can discover the reefs, wrecks, walls, and caves that remain unspoiled and unknown by the masses. Please choose your dives from wreck, wall, cave, antique dives according to your certificate.

NON-DIVERS / SNORKELLING TOUR 1 day The ancient Lykian Peninsula offers you the distinguished feeling of touching the history and the beauty of pine trees in scenic bays during your tour. During the day you can use SNORKELLING EQUIPMENT and enjoy BUFFET LUNCH and all the facilities of Aqua Age Boats.

PADI Courses
PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) is the world's biggest and well-known diver training association. In worlwide, PADI certifies more than 900,000 divers annually.

DISCOVER SCUBA DIVER COURSE – 1 Day
This one day course introduces you to learn philosophy of scuba diving during a short theory lesson and practice. In Discover Scuba Diving Program you will learn some of the theory and practice skills of the Open Water course. If you decide to continue your education you can transfer directly onto the Open Water course giving you the opportunity to complete it in two days instead of three.

Children between 8-10 ten years old may participate in Discover Scuba as bubblemakers.

Prerequisites:
Minimum Age: 10( 8 for Bublemaker)
SCUBA DIVER COURSE – 2 days
This course is the first step on the certification level of the PADI Open Water course. It is a two days course and allows you to enjoy underwater world while learning necessary skills to get the most out of your diver training and to gain a certification card.
When you take scuba Diver course you will be able to dive anywhere in the world to a maximum depth of 12 metres under Instructor supervision.

Prerequisites:
Minimum Age: 10

PADI OPEN WATER DIVER COURSE – 3 Days
If you want to learn to scuba dive, take a PADI Open Water Diver Course, the most widely recognized and respected diving certification in the world. Within a few days, you can be enjoying the underwater world.

Throughout the course, you’ll learn fundementals of scuba diving, including dive equipment and techniques with up to date teaching materials. The practical lessons start off in the confined crystal waters where you will master all the basic diving skills in a safe and controlled environment and 4 open water deeper dives to a maximum depth of 18 meters. You will also earn a PADI Open Water Diver certification that is recognized worldwide.

Prerequisites:
Minimum Age: 10
PADI ADVENTURE DIVER COURSE – 1 or 2 Days
Want to take you diving to the next level? Well look no further! Become a PADI Adventure Diver today and start experiencing the exciting adventures the world of diving has to offer.

The Adventure Diver Program is the perfect opportunity to gain additional experience and skills under the guidance of Aqua Age PADI professionals.

The Adventures in Diving program offers both the Adventure Diver and Advanced Open Water Diver certifications. If you complete any three adventure dives, you can earn your PADI Adventure Diver certification. If you complete your Deep Adventure Dive, Underwater Navigation Adventure Dive and three Adventure Dives for a total of five, you can earn your Advanced Open Water Diver certification.

This certification includes three of the following Adventure Dives:

Adventure Dives available to divers 10 years old and older:
AWARE-Fish Identification
Underwater Naturalist
Boat Diver
Underwater Navigator
Peak Performance Buoyancy
Underwater Photography

Additional Adventure Dives available to divers 12 years old and older:
Altitude Diver
Multilevel Diver
Deep Diver
Night Diver
Diver Propulsion Vehicle
Search and Recovery Diver
Drift Diver
Underwater Videography
Dry Suit Diver
Wreck Diver

Prerequisites
PADI Open Water Diver or Junior Open Water Diver certification (or qualifying certification from another organization)
Minimum Age: 15 years old (10 for PADI Junior Adventure Diver)

SPECIALITY COURSES – 1 or 2 days
How far will you take this diving thing? It's up to you. Once you qualify as an Open Water Diver you can enroll on a number of Specialty. Aqua Age offers Night, Deep, Multi Level, Navigation, Wreck, Shore, Cave, Boat, Photography and many more.

EMERGENCY FIRST RESPONSE COURSE– 1 day The EFR course teaches both divers and nondivers how to deal with emergencies that are potentially life threatening. And also teaches you how to care for injuries or illnesses that are not life threatening or when local EMS is unavailable or delayed.

This comprehensive program is composed of two core modules that can be taught in tandem or as stand-alone courses: Emergency First Response - Primary Care and Emergency First Response - Secondary Care.

Prerequisites:
No dive certification required
No minimum age limit
RESCUE DIVER COURSE – 3 days
This course concentrates on problem recognition and prevention in realistic scenario conditions. You will learn everything you need to know - but hope that you'll never need to use.

Prerequisites
PADI Advanced Open Water Diver or Junior Advanced Open Water Diver certification (or qualifying certification from another organization)
Minimum Age: 15 years old (12 for PADI Junior Rescue Diver)
Successful completion of a sanctioned CPR program within the past 24 months
DIVE MASTER COURSE– 12 days
The PADI Divemaster course is designed to train qualified individuals as supervisory personnel.

PADI Divemaster course is a 12 day boat diving based extensive training program completing 36 dives.

During the Divemaster Course you'll work closely with Aqua Age PADI Instructors to expand your diving skills and knowledge to the professional level. The role of the Divemaster may be to either supervise and assist general diving activities, serve as an underwater guide, an assistant to instructor, and many more.

Prerequisites
PADI Rescue Diver certification (or qualifying certification from another organization)
Minimum Age: 18 years old
Successful completion of a sanctioned CPR program within the past 24 months
CMAS Courses
CMAS* DIVER COURSE – 3 days
Theoretical lessons with the latest up to date materials. 2 practical lessons start off in the confined crystal clear waters where you will master all the basic diving skills in a safe and controlled environment and 3 open water deeper dives to a maximum depth of 18 meters.
CMAS** DIVER COURSE – 2 days
During the course you will do 4 open water dives and you are introduced to both the practical and theoretical knowledge needed to conduct the DEEP (18+ meters), NIGHT, NAVIGATION, RESCUE dives.

Prerequisites
PADI Open Water Diver or CMAS* certificate
20 Logged dives

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These scripts and photographs are registered under © Copyright 2006, Aqua Age Scuba Diving Center / Kemer - Antalya - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

ABELYA TOUR CLIMBING MOUNT ARARAT

2006-05-19T10:53:00.000-07:00

In the footsteps of Noah...The Mount Ararat is a non-active vulcano rising out of the East-Anatolian plateau. Its fertile mountain sides are visited during summer by nomads that graze their flock.

Their hospitality is proverbial as they invite tourists into their black tents to share a meal and a glass of ayran (a yoğurt drink) with them. Our trek starts in Doğubeyazıt, a famous smuggler's nest, where Ishak Pasha built his palace on a lonely pass.

For the ascent we use the southern route which offers the easiest climb and the best facilities. In spite of repeated searches the biblical Noah's Ark, that according to the Old Testament came to rest on the side of the mountain, has not been found as yet. Maybe we'll have more luck?!

Day 1: Arrival
Flight from Istanbul or Ankara to the Ararat Mountain area. Transfer by bus to Doğubeyazıt where we will stay in a hotel. The guide wil explain the itinerary in detail

Day 2:
Transfer to Eliköy (2250 m). Trekking to base camp at 2,950 meters

Day 3:
Trekking to 4,200 m and stay in second camp
Day 4:
Small walks in the immediate surroundings to acclimatize

Day 5: The summit!
We get up at 2.30 am in the morning and start the ascent at 3.30 am. Weather permitting there is a one hour stay at the top, then return to camp 2 and overnight.
ATTENTION: The submit can only be reached when the weather is clear!

Day 6:
Return to Eliköy and from there to Doğubeyazıt with local transport.
Day 7: Journey home.

Further more...A good general physical condition and experience with trekking in mountainous area is necessary - the last 500 meter to the top are covered with glacier ice and crampons are used - this last stretch is relatively flat and requires no ice climbing, mules will carry the backpacks up to the second camp at 4200 m, climbers carry daypacks only.

A climbing permit must be obtained from the Turkish authorities. Therefore the name and passport numbers of participants have to be sent to Abelya Tour one month before departure.

At the moment, no climbing fee is required by the local authorities. Any changes will be notified by Abelya Tour.

Walking dates in 2006
Arrival - Departure
18 June - 25 June
16 July - 23 July
20 August - 27 August
03 September - 10 September

Walking dates in 2007
Arrival - Departure
17 June - 24 June
15 July - 22 July
19 August - 26 August
02 September - 09 September

Minimum number 6 pax, maximum 10 pax.

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These scripts and photographs are registered under © Copyright 2006, Abelya Tour / Şişli - Istanbul - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.

ABELYA TOUR KAÇKAR MOUNTAIN CLIMBING

2006-05-19T10:29:00.000-07:00

In the rainy and lush green landscapes of Northeastern Turkey, the Kaçkar Mountains form the Northern section of the Anatolian mountain chain. The Kaçkar-Kavron summit, at an altitude of 3937 meters, is the highest point in the range.

Extensive glacier and water erosion have given these mountains their craggy, rugged look, and they are known for the complexity and power of the streams and rivers which rush down to the lower altitudes. In fact, this range is the third most important glacial region in Turkey following the Ağrı (Ararat) and Cile-Sat mountains.

The Kaçkars rise between the shores of the Black Sea to the North and the Çoruh River Valley to the South. On the Northern flank, an immense variety of vegetation flourishes in the rainy climate.

Up to 500 meters above sea level, tea plantations and citrus orchards cover the hillsides. Chestnut, hornbeam, beech and other large-leafed trees forest the slopes to 750 meters. Between 750-1500 meters of elevation, pines mix in with the large-leafed trees until gradually they remain the only species of tree from 1500-2000 meters.

Alpine meadows and other grassy vegetation cover the ground above 2100 meters. On the Southern faces of the Kaçkars, which receive strong sunshine and less precipitation, the agriculture is based on the cultivation of fruit and vines. On the Northern side, in the higher elevations, meadows of wildflowers and grasses blanket the slopes up to elevations of 2300 meters.

The area is populated by the Hemşin people who are famous for their colourful dresses and bagpipes made of goatskin

Day 1: Arrival
Flight from Istanbul or Ankara to Erzurum and transfer by bus to the Yusufeli Highlands. At dinner time we will get to know each other and the guide will explain the itinerary of the holiday. Overnight stay in pension
Day2: Dilberduzu and the lakes.
Hiking to Dilberduzu campsite and setting up camp there. A walk to the lakes in the neighbourhood to get the legs going. Return to camp for the night.
Day 3: Dilberduzu - Mount Kaçkar.
Scaling of the Mount Kaçkar (3937 m) the highest mountain of the Kaçkar range. Return to the camp in Dilberduzu.
Day 4: Dilberduzu - Dobe Valley.
Trekking from Dilberduzu to the Dobe Valley. Set up camp in the valley.
Day 5: Dobe Valley - Caymakcur pass – Ayder.
Trekking over the Caymakcur pass (3292 m) to Ayder. Enjoy a thermal bath in Ayder Hot Springs. Dinner and overnight stay in a pension.
Day 6: Sumela Monastery.
Transfer to Trabzon. Visit to the Sumela Monastery. Dinner and overnight stay will be in Trabzon
Day 7: Going home.

Further more...
The first night and the last 2 nights we will sleep in a pension. The other nights we will sleep in tents, or if you like, in the open air. For this walk you will need a good condition and stamina. Every day we will walk 6 up to 9 hours with of course breaks in between. A professional guide will lead the group

Walking dates in 2006
Arrival - Departure
04 June - 11 June
02 July - 09 July
06 August - 13 August
17 September - 24 September

Walking dates in 2007
Arrival - Departure
03 June - 10 June
01 July - 08 July
05 August - 12 August
16 September - 23 September
Minimum number 6 pax, maximum 10 pax.

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These scripts and photographs are registered under © Copyright 2006, Abelya Tour / Şişli - Istanbul - Turkey. All Rights Reserved.